Benin artist turns waste paper into jewelry and home decor

What happens to schoolchildren’s homework once the school year ends? In Benin, English teacher Éric Hermann Ahanhanzo is turning used paper into art. In the southern city of Cotonou, he collects discarded paper and cardboard from schools and printing centers — waste that would otherwise be burned or dumped in landfills. Using simple techniques inspired by origami and decorative arts, he transforms old homework sheets into home decor and jewelry, dried naturally in the sun. His work helps reduce urban waste and pollution, while inspiring others to rethink the value of what they throw away. From classrooms to crafts, recycling paper is creating both livelihoods and cleaner communities.