The Re.Bag.Re.Use initiative has been recognised for its groundbreaking approach to recycling, earning a Bronze Award in the Creative Solutions category at the 2025 South African Plastics Recycling Organisation (SAPRO) Awards. The accolade celebrates the project’s innovative use of discarded VHS tapes to create stylish, functional footstools while promoting sustainability and community empowerment.
The award-winning VHS footstool is made entirely from repurposed materials. Its sturdy internal structure is built from nearly 1,000 VHS cassettes diverted from landfills, while the magnetic tape inside each cassette is carefully deconstructed and crocheted into a textured, durable cover. Local artisans, including upholsterer Fatsan John Singano and crocheter Joana Mnisi, contribute their craftsmanship to complete the unique piece.
Founder Regine le Roux described the recognition as a celebration not only of the product but of the people involved in creating it. “Every piece we make tells a story of sustainability, creativity, and opportunity. The VHS footstool challenges how we think about waste and shows that even the most obsolete items can be given a new life,” she said.
Oliver Bonstein, General Manager of SAPRO, praised the initiative for its creativity and tangible community benefits. “The VHS footstool stood out because it combines innovation with real-world impact,” he noted. “It is this type of creative repurposing that drives our recycling economy forward.”
Re.Bag.Re.Use continues to collaborate with women in the local community and small businesses, creating sustainable livelihoods while tackling South Africa’s complex waste challenges. Although the initiative is not currently collecting VHS tapes, its award-winning products are available for purchase through rebagreuse.com, with bespoke orders also on offer.