Funding for reuse project

Nouvelle Fabrique Pyrénées-Orientales, based in Perpignan, has received up to 75,000 euros in funding from Ecologic, an eco-organization accredited for the sports and leisure industry, as part of the "Match Retour" project. The funding will support efforts to collect, repair, and resell sports and leisure equipment at solidarity prices.

Reusing sports equipment

The organization currently reuses 1.44 tonnes of sports and leisure items annually and aims to reach six tonnes in 2026 and thirteen tonnes in 2027. This initiative seeks to reduce waste and promote sustainable consumption by extending the life of sports equipment.

Expanding collection efforts

The first phase of the project focuses on increasing the collection of sports and leisure equipment. Julien Petit, the project leader, has been hired to engage with local sports retailers to collect unsold items and returns. He will also develop partnerships with municipalities, local authorities, associations, schools, and sports stores to facilitate the collection of unused equipment.

Repair and restoration process

Collected equipment will be sorted, diagnosed, and restored in a dedicated workshop led by Julien Petit. The organization plans to collaborate with the local DRECERES association, which supports people through economic insertion programs. This partnership aims to create economic activity, transfer skills, and develop local competencies.

Selling at solidarity prices

Restored equipment will be sold at solidarity prices, including in temporary shops set up at sports events, tourist sites, and local events. This flexible approach allows Nouvelle Fabrique to reach residents, sports enthusiasts, students, and tourists where the need exists and where they are located.

Project goals and impact

Over two years, the project aims to divert more than 16 tonnes of equipment from landfills. Nouvelle Fabrique is a network of associations and insertion enterprises committed to the circular economy. Their activities focus on selling second-hand items in warm and accessible stores, serving as an alternative to overconsumption, and collecting, sorting, and characterizing waste for reuse or repurposing.