On August 25, 2026, the YMCA Foundation for Northern Development, at the Used Materials Management Station, Suan Luang Lanna Rama 9, in collaboration with the Environmental Management Division of Chiang Mai Municipality, organized a practical training workshop titled “Transforming Waste into Opportunities: Creating Jobs and Income” under the Used Materials Management Learning Center Development Project. The activity was attended by 100 students from schools under the Chiang Mai Municipality.

The activity aimed to promote knowledge and practical skills in creatively reusing used materials through hands-on learning. The students received guidance and safety supervision from staff of the YMCA Foundation for Northern Development and officers from the Environmental Management Division responsible for used materials management.

The students learned how to transform various types of used materials, including turning fabric scraps into keychains, repurposing plastic into everyday household items, and transforming used tires into plant pots and wash basins. These activities helped the students understand the importance of making efficient use of resources, reducing waste, and adding value to used materials.

At the end of the activity, participants exchanged ideas and suggestions regarding the workshop and approaches to used materials management. Participants also received organic compost and vegetable seedlings to take home and use, promoting sustainable resource management in their daily lives.