Plastic pollution and environmental education through artwork
by Helen Powers, Koffi Renner, and Victoria Prowse
Cambridge Prisms: Plastics

Abstract
Plastics have benefited society, but their environmental impact has caused concerns since the 1970s. By the year 2050, plastic production is predicted to reach 26,000 million tonnes and generate 13,000 million tonnes of waste. Plastic in the environment impacts living organisms with short to long-term consequences. To address this, governmental policies, advocacy and recycling have been implemented with varying success. Environmental education plays an important role in mitigating some impacts of plastic pollution. Upcycling discarded plastics in artwork supports that endeavour. The art installation “Regulated Exhibition – The Plastic Human”, a collaboration between BACKLIT gallery, Joshua Sofaer and the Environment Agency, brought the artworld and environmental advocacy together, to inspire discussions on the narrative of plastic pollution. To bring the project to life BACKLIT gallery was turned into a factory where audience members could explore and interact with the installation. The exhibition was free, open to all and accessible to diverse demographics within Nottingham. The interactive exhibition provoked visitors’ senses and provided a feedback mechanism. The “Plastic Human” reflected the impacts of plastic pollution in our environment. Addressing plastic pollution is thought to cause a philosophical and/or ethical burden on humans. The measured and qualitative impact of this could impact our daily lives.

Impact Statement
The project enabled us to tap into the creative sector’s unique way of approaching engagement work with local communities. It provided a different perspective on how we could communicate complex environmental messages in a more accessible manner to our local communities. This was achieved through the power of partnership working which created a unique vehicle in which to share those messages. Key elements of this partnership that allowed it to be successful include; immersive and interactive activities enabling visitors to participate directly with the art installations and offering visitors the opportunity to experience the installation through multiple senses including; sight, sound, touch and smell. Presenting the messages in a variety of ways allowed all visitors to connect to the issue. Understanding the framework of this project’s success will enable other areas within the Environment Agency to replicate this method when wanting to communicate complex messages to their local communities. Therefore, this framework becomes invaluable as it highlights the importance of not relying on standard methods of communication which could exclude certain members of the community but to incorporate more innovative ways of connecting.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL ARTICLE HERE