Comunidade Porto Novo: revalorização de resíduos têxteis por meio da Inovação Social e do Design Estratégico

Abstract

This research addresses the environmental and social impact of fashion in the context of the anthropocene, highlighting the issue of fast fashion and its linear consumption model, which generates a growing volume of waste and the exploitation of vulnerable labor. Sustainability in fashion thus emerges as an essential concept, promoting circular economy practices and material reuse to mitigate socio-environmental damage. Considering this broad issue and the potential to encourage sustainable practices, this research, situated at the Municipal School of Elementary Education (Emef) in the Porto Novo community of Porto Alegre, explores how Strategic Design can guide Social Innovation to transform textile waste into opportunities for economic and social development. The project aims to promote dignity, autonomy, and empowerment in the community, which, despite facing socioeconomic challenges, presents a strong cultural identity - fundamental for implementing initiatives that integrate social development and environmental preservation. The main objective of this study was to develop a Social Innovation project guided by Strategic Design in the Porto Novo community, to promote dignity, autonomy, and empowerment through the revalorization of textile waste stored in a warehouse next to the school. The methodological approach used in this study is structured into three simultaneously occurring phases: theoretical (bibliographic and documentary research, case studies, questionnaires, unstructured dialogues), conceptual (identification of the project's DNA and construction of the intervention strategy), and practical (workshops and monitoring). The results indicate that implementing a sustainable fashion project focused on the circular economy and upcycling can generate positive impacts both at the individual and collective levels. The workshops promoted increased self-esteem and awareness about material reuse and sustainability in fashion. The conclusion reinforces the relevance of Strategic Design as a catalyst for Social Innovation and highlights the potential of projects that unite sustainability and social impact. The research demonstrates that fashion can go beyond consumption, serving as a means of social and environmental transformation, especially in vulnerable communities like Porto Novo.