Twentieth International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability

Abstract

The international community is becoming increasingly aware of the growing plastic pollution found in huge amounts on oceans and beaches. Global communities need to be resilient against this environmental threat, particularly in view of the public health, wellness, and economic priorities that affect quality of life. An informed and educated community is fundamental to establishing this resiliency. The purpose of this paper is to share an integrated research project, Our Plastic Ocean, Our Clean Ocean, to inspire dialogs about plastic pollution and to show art is a powerful tool for change and sustainability. Goals are (1) to provide information about plastic pollution in our oceans, (2) to develop a self-guided empowering tool for students and teachers, and (3) to give participants ownership of the problem as they gain knowledge about plastic waste around the world. Learning outcomes include greater knowledge of environmental challenges, marine litter, plastic pollution, and consequences for local communities. This paper also shares implemented outcomes from several remote schools in Alaska facing unwanted marine debris wash off shores to help participants to rethink the relationship between humans and the ocean in a contemporary culture of consumption. Art is a universal medium that can serve as a catalyst to build understanding of difficult issues. We encourage artistic expression in finding solutions to what can be done to make our ocean cleaner for current and future generations. Our Plastic Ocean, Our Clean Ocean explains ocean pollution, and why we must urgently find solutions.