This event, which took place on October 17, was designed to showcase projects by students, graduates, and faculty members of the university related to sustainable development.
The idea arose as part of the activities carried out by the Environmental Management team at the university, which has been running an environmental awareness campaign for students and staff since 2017 under the slogan #ORTrecicla.
The event was designated as being of ministerial interest by the Ministry of Housing, Land Use Planning, and the Environment and was supported by companies and organizations such as the Business Commitment to Recycling (Cempre), Repapel, Uruplac, Sistema B, the National Brewery, and the Municipality of Montevideo.
The Environmental Management team highlighted the diversity of the projects and the interest they generated among students and staff, as well as among the general public.
“I believe the success of this event demonstrates the public’s interest in these issues,” said Inés Tiscornia, a member of the team that organized the Expo.
Meanwhile, Fernanda Nuñez emphasized that “the event served as an opportunity to rethink our consumption habits and seek out sustainable alternatives.” She also noted that this year the team had launched a campaign for eco-tips, which can still be seen on the walls of the university, to encourage more responsible consumption.
Participating startups
Biopack
A Uruguayan company that produces compostable and biodegradable bags using raw materials derived from cornstarch and vegetable oils. It aims to raise environmental awareness and promote responsible consumption, has from the National Agency for Research and Innovation (ANII) and the industrial fund of the Ministry of Industry, Energy, and Mining (MIEM).
Calmo
is a brand of clothing and home decor that is handmade, locally produced, and sustainable. Each piece is unique and crafted from high-quality materials using processes that minimize the use of chemicals in textile treatment, such as natural printing and dyeing.
Chachipalo
A startup that manufactures products from recycled wood with the help of the community. Customers can donate their wood, which will be used as raw material for the products, and receive up to a 50% discount on their order. The company aims to promote environmental care and awareness through the reuse and transformation of discarded materials.
Ecoearth
A startup that provides consulting services on the final disposal and recovery of industrial waste from meat processing plants, dairy farms, and tanneries, among others. It uses living organisms, such as bacteria and plants, to break down solid and liquid waste, thereby reducing environmental impact.
EXeso / Contemporary Jewelry
Creates designer jewelry using recycled materials (such as CDs, DVDs, and PET bottles) and 925 sterling silver. All pieces are handmade using materials that have reached the end of their useful life. The brand emphasizes the adaptability of the jewelry; a single piece can be customized and adapted to suit any occasion.
Go Vegan
A shop and deli that prepares and sells products free of animal-derived ingredients, suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Its mission is to promote a vegan lifestyle that is compassionate and kind to all animals and the planet.
Hifa
A startup that produces biomaterials capable of replacing plastic and its derivatives using an edible mushroom and lignocellulosic waste. These materials can be used to create a wide variety of products in different shapes, sizes, and designs. Additionally, they offer thermal and acoustic insulation and are fire-resistant, among other properties.
La Casa Uruguaya
A company dedicated to designing sustainable architectural projects that contribute to sustainability. They reduce the carbon footprint and CO2 emissions and consume less energy. Additionally, their construction and design incorporate wood, energy-efficient appliances, and renewable energy.
Más Verde
The country’s first company dedicated to the design and construction of small, medium, and large-scale vertical gardens. It seeks to shift public perception in a way that helps improve residents’ quality of life and fosters a closer connection with nature.
Nativamente
specializes in the propagation of native plant species as well as the design of sustainable gardens. Native herbaceous plants not only have aesthetic value but also require less water, are more resistant to pests and diseases, and enhance biodiversity.
Organi
A Uruguayan startup that sells 100% compostable food and beverage containers, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to single-use packaging.
Paula Rial, Landscape Architect
Design and implementation of green spaces on both small and large scales. She integrates art, architecture, and nature to create custom landscapes for clients, incorporating native species.
Pohã
A line of organic cosmetics created and developed with respect for nature, committed to caring for our bodies and protecting the environment. All products are natural, made with organic plant-based ingredients, free from synthetic chemicals and petroleum derivatives, not tested on animals, and designed for everyone.
Southeast
Recycles discarded advertising materials (banners and billboards) and creates bathroom accessories. It also offers sustainable design services for businesses, merchandising design, corporate gifts, and more.
Recycle Or Die
Beer tap handles made from old skateboards.
The shop
A young company that provides eco-friendly solutions. It offers sustainable alternatives to everyday plastic products, thereby helping to protect the planet and the health of its customers.
I'm hitchhiking
A ride-sharing platform where drivers with open seats offer rides to passengers heading to the same destination. This allows users to split costs, share the travel experience, and help protect the environment.
Zip
Part of the 2019 Rediseña Project, it promotes recycling and raises awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship. Zip is a home decor piece created by transforming waste into new materials using as few production processes as possible.