One step further than recycling is upcycling - making old items into something new... and better, writes Sarah Pickette.

Few environmental buzzwords have captured the public's imagination like 'upcycling'. But what exactly does it mean?

"Upcycling is turning waste materials or unwanted items into products that are more environmentally or economically valuable than the original components," says Janet Sparrow, Manager of Recycling Programs for Planet Ark. "It allows people to look at discarded materials in a whole new light. Upcycling inspires people to consider the full potential of the items we use."

Taking a discarded or waste item and turning it into something new and useful is hardly a radical idea. But in recent times, upcycling has broadened its appeal. This is because the concept addresses people's need to feel they are doing something good for the planet and is a means of rejecting the consumerism that can feel so distasteful in times of economic upheaval.

"It's about living thriftily, being environmentally conscious and channelling your creativity - wanting to have or make unique, personalised items," says Sparrow. "Upcycling seems to have a contagious element to it. The more you see examples of it, the more possibilities you discover and the more you want to give it a go."

Upcycling is a very close relative of recycling and projects can be simple - mulch made out of old newspapers qualifies - or satisfyingly crafty: an example could be felting old woollen jumpers into slippers. If you don't have the time or inclination to upcycle, there are ways to support those who do. See what you can find at your local markets or online through sites such as www.madeit.com.au or www.etsy.com. For exquisitely upcycled furniture (such as the credenza pictured above), take a look at the offerings from Old School Industries.

If you're building or renovating, keep upcycling in mind when you're sourcing materials. You could, for example, opt for ceiling insulation made from waste newspaper (www.energymasta.com.au), carpet underlay constructed from old tyres (www.tyrecrumbaustralia.com), a benchtop that incorporates recycled materials (www.paperock.com.au) or even a luxurious stone-composite Apaiser bath, made in part from used marble (www.apaiser.com.au).

"Upcycling is growing in popularity all over the world," says Sparrow, "and human creativity knows no bounds. I think we'll be seeing more upcycling in the future, particularly as we start to place a greater value on the resources we use."

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