Abstract:
This thesis is a combined ethnographic research study, literature review, and project
proposal on plastic waste in Indonesia, and how upcycled art can be used as a tool for
environmental education. First, interviews were conducted by staff and long-term residents of
Gili Air, Indonesia. They were asked about plastic waste, recycling/waste management facilities
in the area, and how it is impacting the local ecosystem, and what factors ultimately contribute to
the region’s waste issue. This thesis further outlines what is currently being done to improve the
situation, the involvement of local organizations and NGOs, and how they are being received by
the community. Previous studies on plastic waste, and similar approaches to this research subject
are acknowledged in the literature review. The methods, questions, and answers to the interview
questions are laid out as well. Finally, the proposal for a unique method of environmental
education is explained at the end, as well as impact analysis and insight
