The article explores the possibilities for forming competences for sustainable development in preschool education through practical activities based on the reuse and recycling of waste materials. The theoretical framework presents key international and national policies that position education for sustainable development as an essential element of modern pedagogical practice. The results of a practical task implemented with 23 students in the Master's Degree Program in Preschool and Primary School Pedagogy, who created educational toys from waste materials, are presented. The activity allows students to apply the principles of recycling and eco-design, while simultaneously developing professional skills such as planning, creativity, teamwork and pedagogical reflection. Two exemplary student models are analyzed, showing how waste can be transformed into significant educational resources, supporting environmental awareness, social responsibility and sustainable behavior in preschool children. The results confirm that the "new life for the waste" concept is an effective approach for integrating education for sustainable development into the training of future educators.