UPCYCLE MY MATERIALS
What are you working with?
Retired event materials can become something useful again. Choose your material below to explore what it can become.
UPCYCLED ACTIVATIONS, WORKSHOPS & PROGRAMS
DON'T HAVE MATERIALS TO UPCYCLE?
We will help source the upcycled materials you need for your activation, workshop or program.
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Upcycle My Materials - Frequently Asked Questions
What event materials can you upcycle?
We work with rigid event signs, conference lanyards, vinyl banners, fabric banners and other event textiles, with additional materials considered based on the project.
How does the upcycling process work?
Start by telling us what material you have, how much you have and what you'd like to accomplish. We review the material, help determine suitable pathways, coordinate recovery and fabrication, and document what happens next.
How long does upcycling take?
Most projects require approximately four weeks once the material, project scope and required details are confirmed. Larger, custom or more complex projects may require additional planning time.
Is there a minimum quantity?
Many of our upcycled products and experiences have no minimum quantity. The amount of material you have may help determine which options make the most sense.
Do we have to know exactly how much material we have?
No. An approximate quantity is enough to start the conversation. We can help determine what information is needed as the project develops.
Do our materials need to be cleaned or prepared before we send them?
Not necessarily. Preparation depends on the material. For example, recovered conference lanyards are commercially cleaned and quality inspected as part of our process.
Can our materials still have logos or branding on them?
Yes. Branded materials can often be incorporated into upcycled products. No visible branded element is redistributed without client authorization.
Can materials from several events be combined?
Yes. Materials can be collected over time or combined from multiple events when appropriate for the selected project.
Can one material become several different things?
Absolutely. Depending on quantity and condition, recovered material can move into several pathways — including products, employee experiences, corporate activations, youth initiatives and artwork.
What if we don't have enough material for the project we want?
You can explore available material through EMN Find & Share Materials, and in many cases your own recovered material can be combined with additional available material.
What if we have more material than we can use?
Eligible excess material may be shared through EMN Find & Share Materials so it can be considered for another approved next use.
Do you work across Canada?
Yes. We work with organizations and event materials across Canada.
What happens to parts of the material that can't be upcycled?
Materials are assessed and separated according to the project and material type. Where appropriate, reusable components are recovered and suitable remaining materials are directed toward available next-use or recycling pathways.
Will we know what happened to our materials?
Yes. Every EMN material-transformation project includes a Community Impact Report documenting the materials recovered, how they were transformed, the people and organizations involved and where the materials went next.