downcycles

Verb

downcycle (third-person singular simple present downcycles, present participle downcycling, simple past and past participle downcycled)

1. (transitive) To convert (waste materials, etc.) into new materials or products of lower quality and reduced functionality.
   • Nike set up a "Reuse-a-Shoe" program to "downcycle" old sneakers. The outsole rubber and midsole foam from used shoes are converted into surface material for running tracks and other athletic facilities and playgrounds. The fabric from the shoe uppers becomes padding under carpets.2004, Michael Renner, “Moving toward a Less Consumptive Economy”, in Linda Starke, editor, State of the World 2004: A Worldwatch Institute Report on Progress toward a Sustainable Society, New York...

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