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Microplastic In The Thames River

Partner Programme

23 Sept 2023

Graphic Design & Visual Communications, Multi-Disciplinary Design, Art / Collectibles

Better Bankside Events Arch

Arch 23, 45 Southwark St

London

SE1 9HP

#LDF23

Through the physical data visualization and data collection, this project using the Thames as an observation point, explored microplastic pollution in high-density areas along the river. It aims to give people a sense of how close we are to microplastics in our daily life.

Unbeknownst, we live in a micro-plasticized world. Microplastics in the Thames River Project is a data visualization design project based on a plastics dataset created by data visualisation designers Lu Zheng and Jinxiu Chen. For residents of London, the Thames River is the most essential source of tap water for 70% of their lives. This project explored microplastic pollution in high-density areas along the river over six months, using the Thames as an observation point and a location for collecting samples. These objects were remade in resin, which retains all traces of the microplastics in our lives.   Through the physical and local data collection, this project aims to give people a sense of how close we are to microplastics, thus inspiring them to make more sustainable and healthy life choices.