Recycling center Treasure chest

The idea for the Reuse Center Skattkistan emerged four years ago, after an inspiring visit to a preschool conference in Töreboda. During the visit, two educators from Bollebygd saw how a municipality of similar size had managed to create a creative activity using leftover materials from companies. The thought they took with them was simple yet accurate: to use leftover materials as a resource in learning – instead of letting it go to waste.

In Bollebygd, there are many companies with surplus materials. Instead of being thrown away, the project aims to make use of it. Therefore, Skattkistan is being launched – a project that collects leftover materials from local businesses and passes them on to the preschools in the municipality.

A meeting place for learning and sustainability

The Reuse Center Skattkistan serves as a gathering place where educators can find inspiration, participate in workshops, and receive concrete tips. To strengthen children's interest in mathematics, technology, and problem-solving, the educators use the materials in various ways. It is also about daring to think anew, play, and create with what already exists. At the same time, waste from the companies is reduced, making the project sustainable from several perspectives.

When the project period is over, the municipality will take over the operations and continue it. Additionally, there is a clear ambition to open Skattkistan for more activities. For example, schools, after-school programs, and elderly care can use the materials and the creative environment.

Through this, reuse gains greater value in everyday life – and becomes something alive, playful, and educational.

Cut from the application

”The material is an open material, meaning it does not have a specific area of use. This allows children to explore and experiment with the material, which leads to them learning to think freely and strengthens their belief that they can.

The board's decision justification

The project falls within Leader Sjuhärad's objectives for the strategy and contributes with circular services as well as working with recycling. In addition, a meeting place for creative children's activities is also being created. After implementation, the project will be integrated into the municipal operations and thus also create new job opportunities.