This Thesis is Trash

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