What do you do with an old bike rotting in the garage? You keep it for a few years until one day when you finally decide to give it up.
Either by selling it to someone or by dumping it somewhere, right?
The bike ends up in a landfill/dumpyard either way. Guess what, you’re not the only one who is creating metal waste. In fact, 4% of total global waste composition is metal. The sad part is, unlike organic waste, this doesn’t get decomposed. As a result, metal waste end up filling junkyards, land-fills, and garages, creating an ugly mess.
It’s sad, isn’t it? However, there are ways. All metal waste not necessarily end up in the junkyard. They can be recycled and upcycled to make something better like Deval Verma’s sculptures and statues.
1. Deval Verma |
The Metal Scrape Artist Deval Verma is the man behind the “Trash to Treasure” line. He surprised the world in several ways. On the one hand, he challenges the meaning of art itself, and on the other, he starts a revolution in the climate-crisis-fight. Although underrated, it’s still true that Verma is one of the greatest minds of current time. If not as an environmentalist, his name is surely going down in the Although underrated, it’s still true that Verma is one of the greatest minds of current time. If not as an environmentalist, his name is surely going down in the history of art for revolutionizing a new medium. Mr. Deval Verma is a resident of a small city in India–called Indore. As described by the artist himself, he was a shy kid with self-esteem issues. He stammered and often found himself lacking confidence. However, like most reserved children, he also found his way of expression. He was an avid fan of science fiction. His curious mind enjoyed movies like Harry Potter, Iron Man, and Terminator. Being a creative child, he was attracted to the sets, costumes, and the designs, instead of the characters and plot. When he was in 10th grade, Mr. Verma designed his first metal art--a motorcycle.
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In a TedTalks speech, Verma confessed that the science fiction moves, which he enjoyed so much as a child, was the doorway to Mechanical Engineering for him. Although academics didn’t attract the trash-to-treasure man, machines did. It was during his college days when he began playing with nuts and bolts, and learnt how to glue them and weld them.
After graduating as Mechanical engineer, Deval Verma had several job offers in his hand. Instead of taking a job and settling down, he chose an offbeat career path, which most of us didn’t hear. His first project as a professional metal artist was with the motorcycle merchandise–”Harley Davidson”.
After graduating as Mechanical engineer, Deval Verma had several job offers in his hand. Instead of taking a job and settling down, he chose an offbeat career path, which most of us didn’t hear. His first project as a professional metal artist was with the motorcycle merchandise–”Harley Davidson”.
Image Credits: Deval Verma Now, Deval Verma is an established name. From government projects to interior decor, this man has taken "taking trash, making treasure" on another level.
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Deval Verma, now, leads a life where his primary responsibility is to walk from garage to garage and pick abandoned metal. Till today, he used more than 7,000 kg of metal scraps for his art. Recently, he has also up-cycled e-waste and plastics into a Boeing-777, setting an example for the whole world. If Verma alone could up-cycle 7 tons of metal waste, imagine what is possible if we all join hands? Yes, everybody can’t create a piece of art from junk, but we can dump waste responsibly.
2. Final Thoughts
Once a wise someone said, "Live and let live". While we're all busy living our lives, we should also think about our planet's life. The waste we produce daily and how we manage it directly affects the planet and the lives of the creatures living on it. So, let's take inspiration from geniuses like Deval Verma and be responsible individuals. Remember, When you refuse to reuse, it's the Earth you abuse.
FAQs
1. What is upcycling metal waste?
Upcycling metal waste is the process of transforming discarded metal materials into new, valuable products. This eco-friendly practice helps reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimizes environmental impact by repurposing old metal items instead of disposing of them.
2. Who is Deval Verma?
Deval Verma is a renowned environmentalist and advocate for sustainable practices. He initiated the "Trash to Treasure Mission," focusing on upcycling waste, particularly metal, to promote recycling and reduce the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing new products.
3. Why is upcycling important?
Upcycling is crucial for several reasons:
Environmental Impact: Reduces landfill waste and the pollution associated with trash disposal.
Resource Conservation: Saves natural resources by decreasing the need for new raw materials.
Economic Opportunity: Creates new products and job opportunities in the green economy.
Creativity and Innovation: Encourages individuals and businesses to think creatively about waste materials.
4. What types of metal can be upcycled?
Common types of metal that can be upcycled include:
Aluminum (cans, foil)
Steel (appliances, frames)
Copper (wires, plumbing)
Brass (fittings, hardware) These metals can be repurposed into art, furniture, tools, and other creative applications.
5. How can individuals get involved in Deval Verma’s Trash to Treasure Mission?
Individuals can participate by:
Collecting metal waste for upcycling initiatives.
Joining community workshops or events focused on upcycling.
Sharing their own upcycling projects on social media to inspire others.
Supporting local initiatives and businesses that practice upcycling.
6. What are some examples of upcycled metal projects?
Examples of successful upcycled metal projects include:
Sculptures and art installations made from scrap metal.
Functional furniture like tables and chairs crafted from old machinery.
Decorative items such as garden art, candle holders, and jewelry created from metal scraps.
7. Where can I learn more about upcycling metal waste?
You can learn more about upcycling metal waste through:
Deval Verma's official website and social media channels.
Local community workshops and classes on upcycling.
Online platforms and forums dedicated to recycling and sustainability.
8. How does upcycling differ from recycling?
Upcycling and recycling both aim to reduce waste, but they differ in their processes:
Recycling: Involves breaking down materials to create new raw materials (often requiring energy and resources).
Upcycling: Involves creatively reusing existing materials without significant processing, often resulting in products of higher value or quality.
9. Can businesses benefit from upcycling metal waste?
Absolutely! Businesses can benefit from upcycling metal waste by:
Reducing operational costs associated with waste disposal.
Developing unique product lines that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Enhancing their brand image through sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility efforts.
10. What resources are available for those interested in starting upcycling?
Resources for starting upcycling include:
Online tutorials and workshops focused on metal upcycling.
Local community centers that offer classes.
Books and guides on DIY upcycling projects.
Online forums and groups for sharing ideas and gaining inspiration.
By engaging with upcycling initiatives, you can contribute to a more sustainable future while discovering the creativity in transforming waste into worthwhile products.
Conclusion
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