Crafts, art and product design from agro-waste of Nopal cultivated in Sonsón, Antioquia

Abstract

This chapter shows, in a documentary way, the role of nopal in the social and cultural development of the municipality of Sonsón, Antioquia, highlighting its history and its impact on hundreds of families of this region. The nopal has historically been cultivated in Sonsón to harvest one of its flagship products, the fig; an exotic fruit cultivated primarily for export, and much less for local consumption. However, it is known that all parts of the plant are usable, including the waste associated with its pruning. In Colombia, the complete exploration of the entire plant has been timidly explored, so new potential uses beyond harvesting the fruit are unknown. This document exposes the potential of nopal waste in the development of craft, art, and product design pieces using eco-design strategies based on circular economy trends. Hence, a look to an integral use of the plant allows the tradition of the so-called “fig trees” to endure over time, avoiding the threats associated with new agricultural products that promise the farmers “greater benefits” for the livelihood of their families and the development of the region.