The precious plastics showcase was a presentation of the progress that we had made throughout the semester. In the showcase we had to exhibit our work and explain how to process runs. Lots of preparation went into the showcase and everyone in my group contributed equally. I chose to be in a team with, Finn and Aryan. The showcase lasted for about an hour and in that time we were able to present and educate people about the recycling process and how it will impact our environmental footprint.
Weighing Plastic
Shredding Bottles and lids
The Process
Bottles, lids, containers and other types of single use plastics are cleaned, de-labelled and dropped off at the precious plastic collection point. The plastic is then shredded into smaller pieces which are easier to manage. The shredded plastic is placed into the injector and injected into a mold where we can make different shapes and trinkets out of molten plastic. The beauty of making things out of plastic is that it impacts the amount of plastic waste going to landfill by turning it into something useful. The money made when marketing the products is reinvested back into the project so that they can keep making the plastic items and improve the efficiency and quality of it.
My Learning
The precious plastic program has taught me many new skills and information that I never knew before. Me and my group needed to know these skills to operate the machinery and make the project efficient. The beginning of the term was mainly spent practicing our skills, learning tips and making practice plastic items. The skills that I learnt throughout the entirety of the project was, operating the machinery, organising plastic and knowing what type plastic was needed for what item. Overall I thought that everyone in my class for the project did a good job and I think that we all benefited from it.
The precious plastic project was a very fulfilling task and I think it was very beneficial to know. Going into the future these skills are handy especially with managing waste, recycling and links heavily with the global goals.
