Jeans2Totes: From old jeans to new beginning, sustainable tote bag by coastal women

The “Jeans2Totes” project has made a substantial impact on both environmental and social fronts. Through direct training, 25 women from the climate-affected coastal region of Batiaghata have gained skills to repurpose old jeans into reusable tote bags, providing them with an income source that enhances their economic stability and fosters financial independence. Environmentally, the project has reduced textile waste by recycling over 30 pairs of jeans that would otherwise contribute to landfill pollution. This initiative has promoted sustainable practices, with social media campaigns and workshops reaching over 4,500 people to raise awareness on textile waste, plastic pollution, and the 3R principles—reduce, reuse, and recycle. Additionally, through a unique tree exchange program, the project collected 25 pairs of jeans from community donors, encouraging a shift away from single-use plastics. By providing ongoing training to these coastal women, the project has established a sustainable foundation for future impact, achieving lasting social empowerment, economic advancement, and environmental benefits for individuals and the community as a whole.
TEAM MEMBERS:

• Emon Kazi
• G.M. Rakib
• Shuili Chakma
• Md Mehedi Hasan Tomal