Scratch Upcycling: Turning Glass Waste into Jobs and Beauty

In a world where plastic dominates the recycling conversation, Scratch Upcycling is proving that glass waste can be transformed into something valuable, beautiful, and sustainable.

Based in Gulu, this creative initiative turns discarded bottles into everyday products  -  while creating income opportunities for community members.

Scratch Upcycling’s mission is simple but powerful: zero glass waste through creativity, skill, and community action.

What Problem They’re Solving

Gulu faces a growing glass waste challenge. Broken bottles litter streets, homes, and public spaces  -  and with limited recycling systems, glass often becomes a hazard rather than a resource.

Scratch Upcycling tackles this problem by:

• collecting glass waste from households and public spaces

• repurposing it into useful products

• creating a local, dignified income stream

• building awareness about waste and circularity

How They Turn Waste Into Value

Scratch Upcycling transforms glass bottles into:

• cups and tumblers

• candle holders

• cutlery holders

• light bulb holders

This process not only reduces waste, but it also creates products that people want to use and buy.

Milestones That Show the Momentum

Scratch Upcycling has already proven the concept through measurable progress:

• Over 700 glass bottles recycled

• Expanded team capacity

• Custom orders completed for clients

These milestones show that even small-scale solutions can create real impact when they’re built on consistency and community involvement.

The Road Ahead

Scratch Upcycling’s long-term vision is circularity  -  a future where glass is never discarded, only reused.

With growing demand and supportive partnerships, Scratch Upcycling plans to:

• expand its product range

• increase production capacity

• create more jobs

• strengthen the local eco-conscious community

In a world where waste is often ignored, Scratch Upcycling is proving that creativity and commitment can turn trash into opportunity.

Stop by The Commons cafe to buy their products!