Mind The Waste
Transforming materials and mindsets.
Mind The Waste began with a simple observation. Through his work at Crown, Piotr Korczynski became aware of small volumes of surplus materials generated through testing and development processes. While these materials could no longer be used for their original purpose, many still held value. Initially, the concept focused on finding creative ways to repurpose these materials and prevent unnecessary waste. However, the project soon evolved into something much more personal. Piotr joined Crown in 2022 as a QC Controller in Hull before moving into his current role as an R&D Technologist in Darwen. While his professional journey reflects curiosity and a drive to learn, it was during a challenging period in his own life that the idea behind Mind The Waste began to take shape. By experimenting with surplus paint and reclaimed materials as a form of creative expression, Piotr discovered an outlet that helped him relieve pressure, focus his attention and reconnect with the present moment. Through the process, he recognised a deeper connection between material sustainability and personal wellbeing. This insight became the foundation of Mind The Waste. At its heart, the initiative explores transformation—showing how materials
considered waste can be given a second life, while also encouraging people to reflect on their own resilience, growth and potential. Using surplus paint and reclaimed materials, Mind The Waste creates artworks, workshops and exhibitions that encourage conversations around sustainability and wellbeing. The creative process itself provides participants with an opportunity to pause, focus and engage in mindful, hands-on activity. Since its inception, the initiative has grown from an individual experiment into a wider engagement platform. Workshops delivered within Crown have encouraged colleagues to explore creativity using reclaimed materials, while exhibitions have demonstrated how environmental responsibility and personal wellbeing can be connected through practical action. Reflecting on a recent workshop, one colleague highlighted the opportunity to connect with others and learn about “ways to reuse waste products from our business” as well as the “passion and creativity shared by Piotr.” Another described the experience as “very therapeutic”, valuing the chance to step away from the desk, focus on a hands-on activity and take time to de-stress. The project has also expanded beyond the workplace through exhibitions and fundraising
activities, including contributions to the Crown Charity Golf Day in support of Mind. By transforming surplus materials into creative works, Mind The Waste demonstrates how positive environmental action can also create social value and support important causes. Looking ahead, Piotr’s ambition is to continue growing Mind The Waste through workshops, partnerships, exhibitions and community participation programmes. The long-term vision is to build a movement that helps people rethink waste in all its forms—not only as something to reduce, but as an opportunity for regeneration and positive change. Ultimately, Mind The Waste is about recognising value where it is often overlooked. By bringing together sustainability, creativity and wellbeing, the initiative demonstrates how small actions can contribute to stronger people, stronger communities and a more sustainable future.
“Materials are often discarded once their original purpose has ended,” explains Piotr. “Yet many still hold value. I began to realise that the same can sometimes be true of our own experiences. Challenges and setbacks do not have to define us; they can become part of something meaningful.”
Piotr Korczynski R&D Technologist
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