2025, March 7
At the very end of February, AS “AJ Power Recycling” was present at Vidzeme Innovation Week at the nature and technology park “URDA,” where the event “Dare to Create!” took place. Participants not only listened to inspiring stories about courage and innovation but also took part in a creative workshop, where they designed new clothing from reusable textile materials.
Dina Lukaševiča-Lāce, Head of Public Relations at "SIA ZAAO", and Mārtiņš Pudņiks, Communications Director of the corporate group "AJ Power", shared their experience in establishing the #ReGenPaaudze movement. This initiative was created in collaboration with the band Astro'n'out to promote a new way of thinking about the circular economy and sustainability. The movement inspires society to get involved and take action by changing habitual behaviors and seeking creative solutions.
Mārtiņš Pudņiks, Communications Director of "AJ Power", says:
"True innovation arises where there is openness to collaboration. When different industries and skills come together, it is possible not only to highlight important topics but also to create new forms of cooperation. Daring to create means being ready to seek solutions and change the usual approach. Only the courage to think bigger and take action opens the door to new opportunities."
"Innovation often does not begin with large-scale transformation projects but with small, courageous steps. To dare means to take action, even if at first it seems like a small and insignificant step. The key is to continuously seek opportunities, think differently, and dare to challenge the status quo," said Dina Lukaševiča-Lāce, Head of Public Relations at "SIA ZAAO", in her opening remarks at the event.
At the event, Patriks Kirkils, founder of the sustainable fashion platform “Bourzma”, also shared his experience. “Bourzma” is a creative sustainability platform that brings together designers and artists, encouraging them to use recycled materials to create new clothing and accessories. The platform organizes workshops and exhibitions to promote awareness of sustainable fashion and the reuse of resources as part of a modern way of thinking.
"Bourzma is all about sustainability, so I was truly pleased to see how thoughtfully and responsibly this approach is being implemented elsewhere. It is especially inspiring to see that, outside of Riga, regions are developing places like the Nature and Technology Park URDA, where sustainability is not just an idea but a real, practical action. Here, it is considered at every level – from building collaborations to the smallest details. This shows that these choices are made consciously and with confidence, not just because they are expected," notes Patriks Kirkils.
At the end of the event, participants had the opportunity to take part in a hands-on textile workshop led by Evija Tiltiņa, Environmental Education Project Manager at "SIA ZAAO". In the workshop, they sewed a dress using shirts collected from AS “AJ Power Recycling” textile sorting containers. After careful sorting and washing at the "Irve" garment cleaning facility, the shirts were prepared for reuse. Each participant not only gained new experience but also left with a unique, self-made piece of clothing.
About “ZAAO”:
SIA “ZAAO” is a public-private capital company owned by 11 municipalities, providing high-quality and environmentally friendly waste management services in the Vidzeme waste management region. The company handles the entire waste management process—from collection and sorting to transportation, processing, and disposal—while supporting the development of the circular economy. ZAAO is also actively engaged in public education and awareness initiatives, promoting sustainable resource management and responsible environmental practices.
About “AJ Power Recycling”:
AS “AJ Power Recycling” operates within waste management systems for textiles, used packaging, environmentally hazardous goods, and electrical/electronic equipment waste, all overseen by the State Environmental Service (VVD). The company provides businesses with a 100% exemption from the payment of the Natural Resources Tax. AS “AJ Power Recycling” is part of the AJ Power corporate group, which has been active since 2014. In 2023, the group's total turnover exceeded €100 million.
About “Bourzma”:
"Bourzma" is a unique platform that transforms into a physical space in various locations and times, allowing artists to present and sell their work, collaborate, and promote the spread of sustainable thinking. The platform focuses on fashion, art, and music, aiming to encourage creative expression and a sustainable lifestyle.
