BOHOL, PHILIPPINES — A community of kayak guides, volunteers, and artisans in this quiet coastal town is proving that discarded plastic and retired outdoor gear can be reborn as stylish, durable accessories. Project Nova, the upcycling arm of Kayakasia Philippines, recently showcased its unique collection at the Artefino Fair 2026 in Makati City, turning heads and changing mindsets about waste.
From Kayaks to Keepsakes
The project began with a practical problem. Kayakasia’s fleet of inflatable kayaks, used for eco‑tours along Bohol’s Abatan River and Palawan’s lagoons, eventually wore out. Instead of sending them to landfills, the guides and staff repurposed the tough, waterproof fabric into bags, wallets, and keychains. Each piece tells a story of adventure.
What started as an internal recycling effort grew into a full‑fledged livelihood program. Skilled artisans now cut, stitch, and assemble colorful everyday carry items in a dedicated workshop in Maribojoc. The products are not just souvenirs; they are functional gear built to withstand the elements. Every bag is a one‑of‑a‑kind creation, reflecting the varied origins of the rescued materials.
A Village of Collectors
The raw materials come from an ever‑expanding network of community partners. Local kayak guides routinely pick up floating plastic during their river and sea tours. Monthly River Reboot volunteers clean the Abatan River and plant mangroves, while Plastic Free Bohol supplies collected bottle caps and other plastics.
Outdoor enthusiasts and brands also contribute by donating retired camping equipment, kites, hammocks, and even old tents. Children from Forest School Cebu urge their parents to save plastic caps specifically for Project Nova. This growing circle of contributors turns waste collection into a shared mission.
Turning Trash into Treasure
Inside the workshop, the upcycling process is meticulous. Creatives sort through piles of colorful plastic caps, used tarpaulins, and worn‑out kayak skins. Materials are cleaned, cut to size, and matched with functional designs. The plastic caps are transformed into buttons, zipper pulls, and decorative hardware.
At the Artefino showcase alone, the collection repurposed 14,600 plastic bottle caps into 3,650 unique pieces of hardware. The resulting bags—like the Brugera Day Bag and the Mermaid Bag—are vibrant, sturdy, and entirely weather‑resistant. No two items are identical, making each purchase a personal statement against single‑use plastic.
A Boost for Sustainable Tourism
Project Nova is more than an environmental initiative; it is a pillar of the local economy. During the lean tourism months, the workshop provides full‑time employment for many of Kayakasia’s guides and their families. The program has helped the community weather seasonal downturns while keeping traditional skills alive.
The Department of Tourism Central Visayas has supported the project through the Outdoors7 Summit, connecting Kayakasia with other eco‑advocates and outdoor brands. This collaborative spirit amplifies the impact, proving that sustainable tourism can be a powerful engine for both conservation and livelihood. Visitors can join the very tours that supply the raw materials, completing the circle.
