WYSE Travel Confederation is pleased to announce its volunteer project at the 2024 World Youth and Student Travel Conference (WYSTC), in Lisbon, Portgual.

Partnering with ImpacTrip, a Portuguese social enterprise that promotes responsible travel and volunteer experiences that leave a lasting impression on students and the host community, the volunteer project will focus on upcycling and community integration.

This year’s project aims to address both environmental and social challenges through innovative upcycling efforts. By repurposing single-use plastics, particularly bottle caps, the initiative transforms hard plastic into practical items such as skateboards, ping pong paddles and beach tennis rackets.

Participants will gain hands-on experience in the circular economy, learning about various types of plastic, their environmental impact, and strategies for reducing plastic use in daily life. The project highlights the importance of recycling and upcycling in combating plastic waste.

ImpacTrip’s initiatives also aim to support marginalised communities by situating the project’s base in a neighbourhood skatepark. This setting promotes access to skateboarding for local children and strengthens community ties.

Rita Marques, CEO at ImpacTrip, commented, “I believe that travel can be a force for good, and with this gathering of people who want to make a change, we can transform this energy into real positive impact. That’s what this action is all about!”

David Chapman, Director General at WYSE Travel Confederation, adds, “We are proud to support an initiative that not only addresses critical environmental issues but also fosters social cohesion within local communities. The WYSTC volunteer project exemplifies our commitment to highlighting sustainable practices, both in everyday life and during travel experiences.”

Volunteer activities

• Sorting different types of plastic
• Shredding plastic caps
• Melting the shredded plastic
• Assembling the moulds and creating products

The volunteer project will take place on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, 09:00 – 12:00.

The project is only available for registered WYSTC delegates. For more information on WYSTC and how to register, click here.