Transforming Multi-Layered Plastic Waste into Upcycled Functional Art: A Sustainable Approach to Plastic Recycling

Abstract

Today, the environment is threatened by different sources, and the environmental impact of plastic trash has become increasingly critical day by day, with the use of multi-layered plastic presenting particular difficulties because of its slow breakdown and enduring nature. Therefore, the study aims to predesign some useful art, lifestyle, and industrial products made from upcycled materials and address the problem of multi-layered plastic trash in an inventive way.For this study, a detailed survey was conducted among 106 randomly selected people aged 18 to 55 years. A comprehensive questionnaire was developed and performed to determine their opinion about the use of plastics, their impact on the environment, and sustainable products. They may buy or use any product made of upcycled plastics, and the answers to these questions helped to shape the environmental carelessness of multi-layered plastic. Further information about the possible market for these products was obtained from end-sellers. To collect the multi-layered plastic packets like Maggie, chips, biscuits, etc., we appointed a few people and took the help of a small restaurant or food stall to store the packets. By involving local communities, this collection technique attempts to lessen the negative effects of multi-layered plastic on the environment. Finally, based on user feedback and market research, we try to develop a few products after following the design process. After the analysis of the questionnaire, it was found that most users were aware of the side effects of multi-layered plastics and their adverse effects on the ecosystem. From the research, one interesting point came out: people are interested in buying products made of recycled plastic. So after brainstorming and based on the users and market trends, developing useful products by using design-thinking ideas was the focus of the research. Plastic packets that were collected were turned into yarn and weaved into textiles to make a variety of items, including laptop bags, pouches, totes, book covers, and bags. Through the development of handicraft skills, this method not only promoted employment prospects but also addressed environmental issues. According to the study's findings, implementing such a strategy can successfully increase public knowledge of inventive plastic recycling and help to lower environmental pollution. Additionally, the approach offers a viable way to create jobs while encouraging the incorporation of environmentally beneficial behaviors into daily life. This study promotes a change in approach towards creative, neighborhood-focused solutions to address the expanding issue of plastic trash.Finally, we can conclude that awareness related to multi-layered plastics is required and simultaneously increases the utilization of the used plastics for art, lifestyle products, and any industrial products that not only give an alternative to the users but also bring new sources of employment.

Keywords: Multi-layered plastics, sustainable, environment, questionnaire, products

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004791