(UG4) Reducing Waste Through Innovation: Engaging the Melbourne Community via Bottle Cap Recycling

Authors: Adam Giordani, Melissa Kelly, & Oamfah Suwannapong

Advisors: Professor Lorraine Higgins & Professor Stephen McCauley

Category: Undergraduate – IQP

Abstract: The purpose of this project was to assist the Ecological Justice Hub in their efforts to begin their plastics recycling program to recycle bottle caps. We helped set up and create an assembly line, co-designed and prototyped recycled products and story-telling packaging, set up demonstration workshops, and created instructional materials to train future Ecological Justice Hub employees and volunteers on our process. This program aims to promote social change outcomes such as: community awareness, education, and changes in recycling behavior.

UN SDGs: 

SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

SDG 14 – Life Below Water

Video Presentation:

Poster Presentation: 

UG4_Reducing Waste_Bottle Cap Recycling