A Few days ago, I was part of an event by AMSP (Peruvian Association for Sustainable Fashion) and Vogue magazine; there, I discovered Latam’s Segundo Vuelo initiative; the base of these accessories are discarded uniforms, and the color embodiment is a fiber made out of recycled water bottles form the domestic flights.
The “Segundo Vuelo” initiative has successfully fostered social, economic, and cultural development for the artisans of SISAN from Pachacamac.
“Segundo Vuelo” emerged from LATAM’s commitment to sustainability, a program integral to the circular economy project that focuses on giving a renewed purpose to retired LATAM uniforms. Collaborating with SISAN artisans and the Pachacamac Museum, this initiative generates a socio-environmental impact by transforming these garments into products that celebrate Peruvian culture.
Over three years, more than nine thousand garments have been provided to these artisans, material that, if directed elsewhere, might have yet to achieve the same economic, social, and cultural value as it does within this sustainability program. This action has prevented over 26 tons of CO2 emissions into the environment.
As an airline, annual uniform changes ensure a continuous supply of raw materials to the SISAN artisans. This ongoing supply empowers them to innovate and craft remarkable creations, enhancing their livelihoods and quality of life.
The transformation process involves dismantling the uniforms utilizing fabric and linings. After washing, ironing, and screen printing, the materials are handed over to embroiderers, undergo quality checks, and are then crafted into new products. These items are proudly sold at the Pachacamac Museum and featured in LATAM’s mileage redemption catalog, marking a milestone as the first artisanal products within this catalog that major corporations had exclusively populated.
This program stemmed from the initiative to manage the textile waste generated annually by uniform changes responsibly, presenting an innovative alternative to minimize environmental impact.
IT EXPANDED TO AYACUCHO
The SUNQU SUWA artisans from Ayacucho use to give life to their collective speaks volumes about what their products do; they “steal the hearts” of those who see them. As part of a circular economy initiative, these women use recycled plastic from LATAM’s domestic flights to create new products. They employ techniques from their community and infuse them with the vibrant “HEART THIEF” colors.
The impact extends beyond the environment, positively affecting the community by providing raw materials to the artisans. This endeavor offers new opportunities for growth and social development to the women involved in the organization, revealing their resilience in overcoming challenges to support their families and pursue their dreams.
“I’m happy because I not only contribute my art and creativity to creating iconography for the Pachacamac Museum but also contribute to my household’s economy. My children are happy that I’m here,” shares Doménica, an artisan from SISAN.
Approximately 12 products, including backpacks, passport holders, and eye masks, feature exquisite hand-embroidered iconography inspired by the Archaeological Sanctuary of Pachacamac, showcasing elements of Peruvian culture.
With the advent of “Segundo Vuelo”, this associations of women has reaped the benefits, with the distribution of products made from LATAM uniforms serving as a crucial source of income and support for their households.