Prada's Remanufacturing Supports UNESCO Ocean Literacy

Oceans, brimming with diversity, provide over half of the Earth's oxygen and are a lifeline for more than three billion people engaged in the marine economy.

However, climate change challenges these ecosystems, accelerating ocean warming and contributing to the alarming rate of plastic pollution entering our waters annually.

Understanding the ocean's importance is vital. Ocean literacy empowers individuals to make informed decisions aiding in the conservation of this crucial habitat.

In a noteworthy partnership with UNESCO, the luxury fashion icon Prada Group champions ocean literacy through the innovative SEA BEYOND programme, recently extending its educational outreach to a community in Naples, Italy, highlighting the Mediterranean Sea's significance.

The SEA BEYOND Ideas Box

The unveiling of the SEA BEYOND Ideas Box, crafted by famed French architect Philippe Starck, marked a significant moment at the inaugural "Ocean Literacy World Conference" hosted by the UN in June 2024. This tool is set to elevate ocean literacy across over a hundred communities worldwide.

Equipped with modern educational tools including tablets, PCs, a vast array of books, and engaging video and board games, the Ideas Box is a comprehensive resource designed to foster a deep understanding and appreciation of the ocean.

“We are proud that SEA BEYOND has supported Biblioteche Senza Frontiere in creating the first SEA BEYOND Ideas Box, which will enable children to gain the knowledge required to become well-informed adults who are conscious of the future.” says Lorenzo Bertelli, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility of the Prada Group.

“The materials chosen for the SEA BEYOND Ideas Box are resources which have already been successfully trialled by UNESCO-IOC in other educational programs, and we are delighted to bring this initiative to Naples, involving more and more young people and raising their awareness of the importance of safeguarding our planet’s most precious ecosystem.” says Francesca Santoro, Senior Program Officer at UNESCO-IOC.

The Prada Group's Sustainable Vision

Boasting renowned labels like Prada, Miu Miu, and Church’s, the Prada Group prides itself on fostering a distinctive, sustainable dialogue within the fashion industry. 

Prada's pursuit of sustainability is vividly showcased in its revolutionary Re-Nylon collection, epitomisng innovation by transforming waste materials into luxurious apparel. This initiative not only showcases the brand's adaptability but significantly reduces dependency on fossil fuels, underscoring Prada's commitment to environmental stewardship.

A portion of proceeds from the Re-Nylon line directly supports the SEA BEYOND project, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between sustainable fashion and marine conservation.

As a pivotal UN agency, UNESCO's mission extends beyond fostering educational programmes. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting peace and security worldwide. 

Since partnering with Prada in 2019, UNESCO continues to make strides in advocating for ocean literacy and environmental preservation.

“Making ocean literacy accessible to the greatest possible number of different communities is vital for increasing public awareness about the ocean," adds Francesca Santoro.

“This partnership will work to help replace exclusion with involvement, and improve the alliance between man and the environment, focusing on young people and families.” 

“Sustainability is integral to our strategy,” explains Andrea Guerra, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director at Prada Group.

“As we set the ambition of being “Drivers of Change”, we committed to evolve in every aspect of our business, becoming a more inclusive employer, and a more sustainable manufacturer, as well as promoting educational initiatives for the next generation."

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