Plastinaction brief
Plastination is a new international research group that has recently been set up to investigate and raise awareness of the environmental impact that single-use plastic is having globally. It is focused on curbing the excessive use of plastic around the world. Single-use plastics slowly break down into smaller pieces of plastic known as ‘microplastics,’ and it can take thousands of years for these plastics to decompose. These ‘microplastics’ dangerously contaminate our soil and water in the process. The research group is starting with a campaign to promote awareness and to encourage their target audience of young adults from aged 15–23 to boycott unnecessary use of single-use plastic. They have asked you to help them by creating art, design, or media work they could use, sell, or distribute as part of the campaign.
Mindmap
A a new international research group that has recently been set up to investigate and raise awareness of the environmental impact that single-use plastic is having globally. It is focused on curbing the excessive use of plastic around the world.
Who is our client?
Examples of plastination
Plastic Pollution: How Humans are Turning the World into Plastic
The video explains how humans are using so much plastic that it is now becoming a major part of our environment, even entering our bodies. It talks about how plastic is made from something called polymers, which are long chains of repeating molecules. The video also shows how plastic is processed, how it is thrown away, and the impact it has on our planet. It harms the Earth, including humans, animals, and nature. It highlights the problems caused by plastic pollution, like animals eating plastic and getting sick, and how tiny bits of plastic, called microplastics, can even be found in our food and water.
What really happens to the plastic you throw away - Emma Bryce
The video talks about what happens to plastic after it is thrown away. It starts by explaining how plastic bottles are made and then thrown out after being used, often ending up in landfills. When it rains, water runs over the plastic and absorbs harmful chemicals from it. This creates a liquid called leachate, which can seep into lakes, soil, and streams, damaging the environment and harming animals. Since plastic doesn’t break down naturally, it can stay in the environment for a long time. If sea animals eat plastic and we eat those animals, we also end up consuming tiny pieces of plastic, called microplastics, which could harm our health.
Single-Use Plastic - Explained in Stop-Motion
The third video explains how animal remains decompose over millions of years to form oil, which is later used by humans to produce plastic pellets known as 'nurdles.' These nurdles pose a significant threat to the environment and to organisms that accidentally consume them. The video emphasises the unethical nature of manufacturing plastic products that are used for a short period yet take millions of years to decompose. This process is described as wasteful, damaging, and unsustainable. The narrator proposes that to combat this issue, we should boycott single-use plastics, choose reusable items, and/or adopt biodegradable alternatives.
Social action products
Purpose: To bring about local, national or global change; to change attitudes; to raise awareness; to create access to media production for non-traditional groups; to challenge dominant representations and agendas; to create or strengthen community ties; to provide information; to campaign; to change voting behaviour; to infiltrate mainstream media; to build relationships with subjects.
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Impact: Evidence of any change being brought about through projects.
Case study
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The poster was created using colour that are muted and toned down to grab the attention of the readers by reflecting on the mood representing the sadness caused by homelessness.
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To effectively grab the readers attention, red font has been used in clear and bold capital letters.
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A rhetorical question was added to show the devistation caused by not having a home which questions the reader.
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The photo used in the poster complements the overall look and idea of the poster by using a close up shot at eye level with the reader, this catches the readers eye and capture the emotion given behind the image by the expression shown on the ladys face.
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Finally, in a smaller font, detailed information stating 'losing your job doesn't have to mean losing your home. We can help' is added for imact to represent a sense of community.
Social action posters
Purpose:
The purpose of this poster is to encourage people to donate money to support and give better lives to the orphans in the UAE.
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Techniques:
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They used different fonts with different sizes and colours to catch the readers attemtion.
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They used an image that complements the overall idea of the poster, it catches ther readers eye and capture their emotions given by the image by the expressions on the childrens faces.
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It includes detailed information of where to donate.
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Finally, in a smaller font, detailed information stating 'A home and family atmosphere to every orphanedand destitute child' is added for imact to represent a sense of community.​​
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Impact:
The impact is that they raise awareness, evoke empathy, and motivate communities to take action in helping vulnerable children.
Purpose:
The purpose of this poster is to encourage people to donate blood.
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Techniques:
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They used different fonts with different sizes and colours to catch the readers attemtion.
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They used an image that symbolises care, compassion and the life-saving act of blood donation.
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It includes detailed information of the benfits, the duration and the slots available.
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Finally, in a bigger font, detailed information stating 'Donate blood, revived hearts' and 'Give blood, give life' is added for emphasis to highlight the importance of the message which incourages readers to take action.​​
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Impact:
The impact is that they show how it saves life, promotes health, and fosters a sense of comunnity and compassion.
Purpose:
The purpose of this poster is to encourage people to donate for children to get education.
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Techniques:
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They used different fonts with different sizes to catch the readers attemtion.
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They used an image that symbolises how getting an education would brighten their future by using a grey image and adding colour to the oart where the little girl is holding the book.
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It includes detailed information of the benfits and how much money to donate given in a range from 1 number to another.
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Finally, in a bigger font, detailed information stating 'Education makes the difference' is added for emphasis to highlight the importance of the message which incourages readers to take action in helping the children get the education they need.​​
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Impact:
The impact is that they show how it can break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for a brighter future for the children.
Conclusion
In the first poster, the techniques used include different fonts in various sizes and colours to grab the reader's attention. The image complements the overall message of the poster, drawing the reader’s eye and evoking emotions through the expressions on the children’s faces. It provides detailed information on where to donate. Finally, in a smaller font, the phrase, "A home and family atmosphere to every orphaned and destitute child," is included to create a sense of community and connection. In the second poster, different fonts in varying sizes and colours are also used to catch the reader’s attention. The image represents care, compassion, and the life-saving impact of blood donation. The poster provides detailed information about the benefits, the duration, and the available time slots. Finally, in larger font, phrases like "Donate blood, revived hearts" and "Give blood, give life" are added to emphasise the importance of the message, encouraging readers to take action. In the third poster, different fonts with varying sizes are used to engage the audience. The image symbolises how education can brighten a child’s future by contrasting the grey background with the colourful section where the little girl is holding a book. It provides clear details about the benefits and the donation amounts, given as a range. Lastly, the phrase "Education makes the difference" is highlighted in bold, larger font to stress the significance of the message and inspire readers to take action to help children access education.
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My favourite poster is the one about education because, in my opinion, education is essential for every child to have the opportunity for a brighter future. The poster conveys a powerful and meaningful message through the image of the little girl, which evokes empathy from the readers. Additionally, it clearly explains the impact of donating and encourages immediate action to help children gain access to the education they need, paving the way for them to have a successful and bright future.
Social action videos
Barnardo's advert- repeating itself
what are the things that make this promotional video effective?
This video is an effective promotional tool because of the way it captures the audience’s attention through a powerful storytelling technique. It repeatedly shows scenes from the girl’s life, with each repetition sped up to highlight the repetitive nature of her struggles. This approach helps to visually and emotionally communicate how her difficulties remain unchanged, creating a strong sense of urgency and empathy in the viewer. The advert was designed to deliver a clear and meaningful message: some children’s stories, like the one portrayed in the video, will continue to repeat unless someone steps in to make a difference. By showing the cycle of struggle in a visual and impactful way, the video encourages viewers to think about the importance of taking action.
The repetitive scenes, paired with the emotional tone of the video, remind the audience that change is possible but requires intervention. This method of storytelling effectively connects with viewers, inspiring them to reflect on the need for support and involvement to help break the cycle and create a better future for children in similar situations.
Community Organisations Tackling Re-offending
what are the things that make this community media project effective?
In this video, the factors that make this community media project effective include the use of personal stories, which help create a strong emotional connection with the audience. By sharing real-life experiences, such as Michael Finn’s journey, viewers can see the direct impact of the organisation’s work and feel more connected to its purpose. The video also uses a clear narrative structure to highlight how Action Acton supports ex-offenders, showing the steps they take to move from challenges to progress. This makes the message easier to follow and more engaging for viewers.
Additionally, the visual contrasts between the struggles of ex-offenders and their transformation show the positive outcomes of the organisation’s efforts, making the results more relatable and inspiring. The video also emphasises the importance of community involvement, showcasing how local partnerships and support play a key role in bringing about change. By sharing future goals, such as expanding services and ensuring sustainability, the video creates a sense of hope and trust in the organisation’s commitment to making a lasting difference. These elements work together to engage the audience and encourage support for the mission.
The answer is plain - Campaign for plain cigarette packaging
what are the things that make this campaign effective?
This video highlights several factors that make the campaign effective. It shows children reacting to cigarette packaging, drawn to its bright colours, fun designs, and fancy branding. Their honest reactions demonstrate how these appealing designs can make smoking seem attractive and harmless, especially to young minds. By using children’s perspectives, the video creates a strong emotional impact, helping viewers understand how easily influenced children can be by the appearance of these products.
At the end of the video, a clear statement is displayed: “Unbranding cigarette packaging won’t stop everyone from smoking, but it will give millions of children one less reason to start.” This powerful message emphasises the importance of removing appealing designs from cigarette packages to reduce their attractiveness, especially to children. The campaign effectively communicates that while unbranding may not eliminate smoking entirely, it could make a significant difference in preventing children from starting, creating a lasting impact on public health. This combination of real reactions and a strong, clear message makes the campaign memorable and impactful.
Graphic anti-smoking advert released in UK
what are the techniques that make this advert effective?
In this video, the techniques used to make the advert effective are the use of visual symbolism and metaphors, which clearly show the harmful effects of smoking. The video features a close-up of a man smoking, with the cigarette gradually expanding from the front. This visual effect symbolises the spread and growth of damage caused by the chemicals that are inhaled when smoking. As the cigarette expands, the red glow that appears highlights the danger and severity of the toxins being released. The narration ties smoking to mutations in the body, explaining that these mutations can lead to cancer, which reinforces the message of the video. It suggests that if people were able to see the internal damage caused by smoking, they would be more likely to stop. The overall impact of the video is to make viewers understand the serious risks of smoking and encourage them to quit.
It's 30 for a reason road safety advert
what are the techniques that make this advert effective?
In this video, the techniques used to make the advert effective are visual effects and a strong narrative to create a sense of urgency and highlight the importance of speed limits. The video shows a girl lying on the side of the road, seemingly about to die, and then insects crawling into her body, which symbolises loss of control. The insects moving her to the middle of the road emphasise the helplessness of the situation. When she opens her eyes, she is shocked to find herself in the middle of the road, which adds to the feeling of sudden danger. The narration, paired with the visuals, communicates the serious consequences of speeding, with the statistic about hitting at 30mph suggesting that following speed limits significantly improves the chances of survival. This combination of imagery and facts serves to drive home the message about road safety and the importance of driving responsibly.
Self-picked social action videos
That Little Voice
Purpose:
The purpose of this video is to encourage people to speak up when they feel like the voices in their head is keeping them silent.
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Techniques:
The video uses several techniques showing different people's experiences and the voices in their heads to show how they decided to speak up instead of staying silent. It encourages you to find your voice and make it heard. At the end, the video shows sped-up text saying: speak up for diversity, speak up for fairness, speak up for understanding, speak up for equality, speak up for acceptance, speak up for belonging, and speak up for inclusion.
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Impact:
The impact of the video is that it inspires people to overcome their doubts and find the courage to speak up and be heard.
We see you. A campaign for mental health care
Purpose:
The purpose of this video is to help those who are struggling with mental health issues by building a system of mental health care that is sustainable, inclusive, and accessible to all. ​
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Techniques:
The video uses several techniques showing a man meeting his friends at a restaurant after not seeing them for a long time. When one of his friends asks how he is, time freezes, and he talks about how he hasn’t been feeling well, can’t remember being happy, and feels like no one listens to him. Then, everything goes back to normal, with sound effects showing the change, and he replies by saying he’s fine and everything is good. At the end, the text says, "We see you." The video encourages people to speak up.
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Impact:
The impact of the video is that it raises awareness about mental health struggles and encourages support for a care system that is accessible and inclusive for everyone.
Just a Kid | UNICEF
Purpose:
The purpose of this video is to show how should should be allowed to speak out by showing these inspiring children are speaking out, claiming their rights and leading the way to the world they deserve.​
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Techniques:
​The video uses several techniques to deliver its message effectively. It starts with a child speaking about common phrases like "children should be seen and not heard" and "you’ll understand when you’re older," which challenges these ideas from the start. Subtitles are used throughout the video to ensure the message is clear and accessible. The video also shows real scenes of children’s actions that were recognised worldwide, like a girl who swam for three hours to save lives, making the message more impactful and inspiring. A child narrates everything that is happening, which makes the video more relatable and engaging for the audience. At the end, the child’s powerful words—“Kids are speaking up, kids are demanding their rights, kids are acting now for a better tomorrow. What will you do?”—serve as a direct call to action, leaving the audience with something to reflect on.​
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Impact:
The impact of the video is that it empowers children to speak out, stand up for their rights, and inspire others to work towards a fairer and better world.
Conclusion
In the first video, several techniques are used to show different people's experiences and the voices in their heads, highlighting how they decided to speak up instead of staying silent. It encourages viewers to find their voice and make it heard. At the end, sped-up text appears, saying: speak up for diversity, fairness, understanding, equality, acceptance, belonging, and inclusion. In the second video, a man meets his friends at a restaurant after not seeing them for a long time. When one of his friends asks how he is, time freezes, and he talks about how he hasn’t been feeling well, can’t remember being happy, and feels like no one listens to him. Then, everything goes back to normal, with sound effects showing the change, and he replies by saying he’s fine and everything is good. The video ends with the text, "We see you," encouraging people to speak up. In the third video, different techniques are used to send its message. It begins with a child challenging phrases like "children should be seen and not heard" and "you’ll understand when you’re older." Subtitles are used throughout to keep the message clear, and real scenes of children’s actions, like a girl who swam for three hours to save lives, make the video inspiring. A child narrates everything, making it relatable, and the video ends with a strong call to action: "Kids are speaking up, kids are demanding their rights, kids are acting now for a better tomorrow. What will you do?" My favourite video is the one about the little voice because it shows the importance of speaking up in a powerful and relatable way. It captures the internal struggle many people face when their inner voice tells them to stay silent, making the message more personal and emotional.
Single use plastics
What single us plastics do we use?
​Some of the single-use plastics we come across in our daily lives include plastic bags used for shopping, groceries, or packing items, and disposable water bottles for drinks like water or other beverages. Straws are commonly used for drinks, especially in cafes and restaurants. Takeaway meals often come with plastic cutlery such as forks, spoons, and knives, as well as food containers for fast food or leftovers. Cling film is frequently used to wrap or store food, while disposable cups with plastic lids are used for hot drinks like coffee. Snack packaging, such as wrappers for crisps, chocolate bars, or other treats, is another common example. At parties or events, people often use plastic plates and cups, and for travel, small disposable bottles of shampoo, conditioner, or shower gel are popular. Bubble wrap and plastic wraps are widely used for shipping or protecting products. Items like plastic rings on multi-packs of cans or bottles, the plastic stems in cotton buds, disposable toothbrushes, and razors designed for short-term use also contribute to the daily consumption of single-use plastics.
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How can we impact the use of single use plastic at a local level?
We can reduce single-use plastics at a local level here in the UAE by taking more sustainable actions. This includes using reusable bags for groceries and shopping instead of plastic ones, avoiding disposable plastic bottles by switching to refillable ones, and asking for reusable cutlery in cafes and restaurants. We can also support local businesses and restaurants that use biodegradable or eco-friendly packaging for their products. Joining community clean-up events, such as beach or neighbourhood clean-ups, is a great way to help remove plastic waste and raise awareness. Additionally, we can educate others about the harmful effects of single-use plastics through schools, social media, or local events. Taking part in local recycling programmes and making sure plastic waste is put into the correct recycling bins is another important step. Choosing products with minimal or plastic-free packaging and supporting sustainable local markets or shops can also make a difference. We should advocate for stricter rules on single-use plastics, encouraging policies like bans on plastic bags or straws. Finally, we can lead by example by using eco-friendly alternatives and inspiring our family, friends, and neighbours to do the same.
Reducing single-use plastic at the local level | Keith Tharp | TEDxPortsmouth
What single use plastics do we use?
The video talks about the environmental impact of single-use plastics. It highlights their convenience but unsustainable nature, which contributes to pollution. The video also demonstrates how using reusable and biodegradable alternatives, such as cloth bags, refillable bottles, and reusable cutlery, can help reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. Some of the single-use plastics we use include plastic bags, bottles, straws, cutlery, takeaway containers, food packaging like cling wrap and snack wrappers, disposable coffee cups and lids, cotton buds, and single-use sachets for condiments or personal care products.
Plastic Straw Removed From A Sea Turtle's Nostril (Short Version)
​How can we impact the use of single use plastic at a LOCAL level?
The video talks about strategies to reduce single-use plastics at a local level through collective efforts and strategic initiatives. We can impact the use of single-use plastics at a local level by raising awareness through education campaigns, workshops, and school programmes to inspire people to adopt environmentally friendly practices. Encouraging local businesses to switch to eco-friendly alternatives, offering incentives like discounts for reusable items, and supporting government policies to limit or ban single-use plastics can also make a significant difference. Hosting recycling drives, setting up refill stations, and promoting the use of reusable bags, bottles, and containers can further reduce plastic consumption and create a culture of sustainability within the community.
Single use plastics
What information about single use plastics are you going to use?
In my video, I’ll share key information about single-use plastics, starting with what they are and why they’re a problem. I’ll explain how these plastics pollute the oceans, harm wildlife, and break down into microplastics, which can enter the food chain and even affect human health. I’ll include some powerful statistics to show the scale of the issue. I’ll also talk about solutions and alternatives, ending with a call to action to encourage viewers to make small, positive changes in their daily lives.
For my posters, I’ll focus on three main areas. First, I’ll use a strong image with a clear message about the problem. Next, I’ll show alternatives to single-use plastics with a “Do This Instead” section and an inspiring message. Finally, I’ll include some key statistics and explain how people can take action to help.
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How are you going to encourage your peers to not only avoid single use plastics but also to make a change spread the word?
To encourage my peers to stop using single-use plastics and make a difference by spreading awareness, I will create a poster and a short motivational video. The poster will include a strong image with a clear message about the problem. It will show alternatives to single-use plastics in a “Do This Instead” section with an inspiring message. I will also add some key statistics and simple explanations on how people can take action to help. The video will provide important information about single-use plastics, starting with what they are and why they’re harmful. I’ll explain how they pollute the oceans, harm animals, and break down into tiny pieces called microplastics, which can enter the food chain and even harm human health. I will include powerful statistics to show how big the problem is. Lastly, I will talk about solutions and alternatives and finish with a call to action, encouraging my peers to make small, positive changes in their everyday lives.
Information on single-use plastic
Information I found:
Single-use plastics are items made of plastic that are used once or for a short time before being thrown away. Plastic waste has a serious global impact on the environment and our health. It takes hundreds of years to break down, and if not managed properly, it can pollute the oceans, rivers, and land. Single-use plastics are more likely to end up in the sea compared to reusable items. Plastics are widely used because they have useful qualities like being lightweight, hygienic, durable, low-cost, and good at keeping things insulated. They are commonly used in construction, to store liquids, and to preserve food, helping to prevent food waste. Some of the most common single-use plastics are plastic cutlery, straws, drink containers, and food packaging. We can take action to reduce the use of single-use plastics. This includes raising awareness, designing better alternatives, and adding labels to inform consumers about the plastic content of products, how to dispose of them properly, and the harm they cause if littered. Producers should also take responsibility for waste management and clean-up efforts. Switching to reusable items and choosing eco-friendly options can make a big difference. By making these small changes, we can create a positive impact on our daily lives. This will help us protect wildlife, clean our oceans, and ensure a healthier, more sustainable planet for future generations.
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How I plan to use it:
To create an impactful and motivational poster and video, I will focus on delivering a clear and inspiring message that resonates with the audience.
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For the video, I will include the key facts and information I’ve researched, supported by relevant statistics to make the content relatable and credible. The video will also highlight practical alternatives to single-use plastics, showcasing how small changes can lead to big differences. Towards the end, I will include a strong call to action to inspire viewers to take steps towards reducing their use of single-use plastics and adopting more sustainable habits.
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For the poster, I will summarise the most important facts and information in concise bullet points to make it easy for readers to grasp. Alongside this, I’ll feature a striking image that leaves a strong impression on the audience. The poster will also include an inspiring message, along with practical solutions and alternatives to single-use plastics. Like the video, it will end with a call to action, encouraging readers to take small, meaningful steps to make a positive difference.
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By combining powerful visuals, compelling facts, and practical solutions, both the video and the poster will aim to inspire and motivate the audience to reduce their use of single-use plastics and contribute to protecting the environment.
References:
Agency, E.P. (2024). Single Use Plastics. [online] www.epa.ie. Available at: https://www.epa.ie/our-services/compliance--enforcement/waste/single-use-plastics/.
Codes and conventions
1. Main image
The main image is the most important visual element on a poster. It is designed to catch the attention of viewers and quickly convey the overall message or theme of the poster to the audience.​
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2. Title
The title is made up of large, bold text that is usually positioned at the top or centre of the poster. Its purpose is to inform the audience about the main topic or the purpose of the poster, making it clear what the poster is about.​
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3. Organisation name
Including the organisation's name helps the audience identify who is responsible for creating the poster or delivering the message. This can make the poster feel more professional and trustworthy.​
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4. Logo
The logo is a small but recognisable design or symbol that represents the organisation behind the poster. It is used to promote brand identity, build trust with the audience, and make the organisation more memorable.​
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5. Slogan
A slogan is a short and catchy phrase included on the poster to support the main message or idea. It makes the poster’s message more engaging and helps the audience remember it more easily.​
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6. Negative space
Negative space refers to the blank or unused areas of the poster. This space is important because it helps the design look organised, keeps the content easy to read, and prevents the poster from looking too crowded.
How to Create a Poster Campaign
How could you make two other posters that “match” it but that aren’t boring?
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Poster1:
I will focus on creating a poster that includes an image of a pair of slightly dirty hands holding a transparent plastic bottle filled with single-use plastics like straws, lids, and wrappers. The slightly dirty hands would represent the impact of waste on our environment. The background would remain the same for consistency. I will include a message related to the appearance of the slightly dirty hands holding the plastic bottle, saying, "The cost of convenience is in your hands." This would encourage people to reflect on their responsibilities in reducing waste and inspire them to make a change.
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Poster 2:
I will focus on creating a poster by adding a faded background image of ocean waves. I will keep the idea of the plastic bottle but include a wider variety of single-use plastic items, such as food wrappers, bottle caps, and plastic bags, arranged to create a more chaotic and crowded effect. I will add a bold, attention-grabbing message that says, "Would you drink this?" at the top of the poster. At the bottom, I will include a smaller caption saying, "Plastic waste ends up in our water – reduce single-use plastics today," which will provide more context and encourage action.
Usage of lighting
Picture 1:
The first photo is taken in front of a window, allowing natural light to brighten the image. The sunlight from the window highlights the individuals features more clearly and makes the photo look brighter and more colourful. This natural lighting creates a cheerful and lively mood, making the overall image more appealing and vibrant.
Picture 2:
The second photo is taken in the middle of a hallway, where the lighting is dimmer than in the first photo because it relies on artificial light. This type of lighting gives the photo a softer look and less vibrant colours. However, it still manages to capture a sense of teamwork and connection between the people in the image, making it feel meaningful and engaging.
Conclusion :
Overall, the first photo, taken by the window, turned out better because it uses natural light, which makes the photo brighter and highlights the person's features more clearly. In contrast, the second photo, taken in the hallway, relies on artificial lighting, which makes the image appear duller and less vibrant. The brightness in the first photo not only makes it more visually appealing but also brings out more details in a way that feels natural and fresh. The use of natural light creates a warm and lively atmosphere, making the overall photo stand out compared to the second one.
Mock-up posters
Poster 1:
In the first image it shows the template of the poster mock-up that i chose for my first poster mock-up on canva.
In the second image it shows the image i chose for the first poster mock-up that i'm making.
In the final image it shows the completed version of my first poster mock-up where i dragged the image to the middle and it automatically generated on to the poster mock-up template.
Poster 2:
In the first image it shows the template of the poster mock-up that i chose for my second poster mock-up on canva.
In the second image it shows the image i chose for the second poster mock-up that i'm making.
In the final image it shows the completed version of my second poster mock-up where i dragged the image to the middle and it automatically generated on to the poster mock-up template.
Poster 3:
In the first image it shows the template of the poster mock-up that i chose for my third poster mock-up on canva.
In the second image it shows the image i chose for the third poster mock-up that i'm making.
In the final image it shows the completed version of my third poster mock-up where i dragged the image to the middle and it automatically generated on to the poster mock-up template.
Focus group feedback
Poster 1
Person A:
"I think your description is really clear and explains the process well. It’s easy to understand how you moved from the template to the final mockup. I also like how you showed each step, which helps to see your progress."
Person B:
"The poster mockup looks well put together. I like how you arranged the elements because it makes the content easy to follow. The images fit well, and it’s obvious you paid attention to detail."
Person C:
"Your process is well-documented. I can see that you carefully planned each stage before completing the final version. It shows good organisation and thoughtfulness in how you worked through the project."
Person D:
"I appreciate how your description highlights your decision-making process. It’s nice to see how you explained why you chose certain designs, which shows you thought critically about your work."
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Poster 2
Person A:
"Your description is detailed and helps me understand the changes you made from the template to the final poster. It’s easy to follow and shows your effort in making improvements."
Person B:
"The poster mockup is visually strong. I like how the images are placed because it makes the layout feel balanced. You’ve clearly thought about how to present the content effectively."
Person C:
"Your process is impressive because you’ve shown how you developed the poster step by step. It’s clear that you reflected on each stage and made changes where needed, which shows good problem-solving."
Person D:
"I like how your description explains your creative choices. It’s interesting to read about what you wanted to achieve with the poster, and it shows that you had a clear vision throughout the project."
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Poster 3
Person A:
"Your description does a great job of explaining the process clearly. It helps me understand how you went from the initial idea to the finished poster, which shows strong planning."
Person B:
"The poster mockup is well-organised. I like how you arranged the images because it makes everything easy to understand at a glance. It’s neat and professional."
Person C:
"Your process shows that you took time to think through each step. I can see that you’ve carefully considered how to improve your work as you went along, which is a strong approach."
Person D:
"I really liked reading your description because it shows your attention to detail. It’s clear that you thought carefully about how to present your work and explain the decisions you made."
Audience research
Who is our audience?
Young adults from aged 15 - 23
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Demographic
Gender: Females and males
Age: 15-23
Marital status: Any
Household structure: Villa, Apartment, townhouse, etc.
Income: Any
Education: High school/Univeristy
Religion: Any
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Psychographic
Social status: Middle class
Interests: Prevention of plastic pollution
Opinions: To promote the use of alternatives to people who actively use single-use plastic, and to futher encourage people who already use alternatives.
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What do we need to find out from them?
I aim to find out how often they use single-use plastic items, which items they use the most, and what they usually do with these plastics after use. This will help me understand their recycling habits or if they don’t recycle at all. I also want to learn what they think are the biggest problems caused by single-use plastics, as this will help me create messages that connect with their concerns. Additionally, I will find out if they are willing to switch to eco-friendly alternatives and what challenges stop them from reducing their plastic use. Finally, I will discover what kind of messages would inspire and motivate them to change their habits. This will help me design content that encourages people to use less single-use plastic.
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How are we going to do it?
I will gather information from my audience through a survey and interview.
Survey
Conclusion
After conducting the survey for my secondary research, I found some key insights. 75% of respondents use single-use plastics every day, and 25% of respondents use single-use plastics a few times a week. For the second question, 60% of respondents said they use plastic bottles the most, while 15% each said they rely on plastic bags and food packaging. Only 5% use straws the most, and another 5% use all the mentioned items equally. When asked what they do with single-use plastics after using them, 70% said they throw them in the bin, 25% recycle them, and only 5% reuse them. In terms of the biggest problem caused by single-use plastics, 50% of respondents believe it is pollution in oceans and rivers, 30% think it harms wildlife, 15% said waste in landfills is the biggest issue, and 5% pointed to climate change. For supporting eco-friendly alternatives, 40% said yes, they would support them, while 60% said yes but only if they are affordable. None of the respondents answered no or that they are unsure.When asked what stops them from reducing their use of single-use plastics, 40% said it’s the cost of alternatives, 25% mentioned the convenience of plastics, 20% said there’s a lack of alternatives, and 15% said they already try to avoid plastics. As for the type of message that would inspire them to stop using single-use plastics, 40% chose “Choose eco-friendly for a cleaner future,” 35% were inspired by “Small changes make a big difference,” 20% preferred “Your actions today shape tomorrow’s planet,” and 5% were moved by “Save marine life—every choice counts.”Finally, when asked what would encourage them to use less single-use plastic, 60% said more affordable alternatives, 25% said better education on plastic waste, 10% mentioned more recycling options, and 5% said seeing positive change from other people. These findings will help shape content that connects with the audience’s views and encourages them to reduce their use of single-use plastics.
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​The survey results helped me change and improve my ideas for my posters and promotional video. Since most people are concerned about ocean pollution and harm to wildlife, I decided to focus on strong visuals that show the damage single-use plastics cause to marine life. This will help create an emotional connection and grab attention. I also plan to include simple, powerful messages like “Choose eco-friendly for a cleaner future” and “Small changes make a big difference,” as these were the most inspiring to the audience. For the video, I will highlight the problems caused by plastic waste and show affordable, eco-friendly alternatives to address the cost concerns many people have. I will also include tips on how to reduce plastic use in everyday life, making it easy for viewers to take action.
Interview
1. How do you feel about the amount of single-use plastic used in daily life?
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Person 1: Feels overwhelmed by how much plastic is everywhere, especially in food packaging.
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Person 2: Thinks single-use plastic is unnecessary in many cases, like plastic straws.
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Person 3: Doesn’t really think about plastic use unless reminded by news or social media.
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Person 4: Feels guilty about using plastic but finds it hard to avoid, especially with snacks.
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Person 5: Thinks single-use plastic is a huge problem and should be banned in many cases.
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2. Can you describe any changes you’ve made to reduce your use of single-use plastics?
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Person 1: Started using reusable water bottles and bags but finds it hard with takeaway food.
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Person 2: Uses a metal straw and carries a tote bag when shopping.
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Person 3: Hasn’t made big changes but tries to recycle more.
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Person 4: Bought a reusable coffee cup but often forgets to bring it.
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Person 5: Has switched to using glass containers at home.
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3. What challenges do you face when trying to avoid single-use plastics?
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Person 1: Finds it challenging because eco-friendly options are expensive.
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Person 2: Says it’s hard to avoid plastic when buying packaged groceries.
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Person 3: Finds it hard because plastic is everywhere, even when trying to avoid it.
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Person 4: Says the hardest part is remembering to carry reusable items.
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Person 5: Finds it challenging when travelling because reusable items are less convenient.
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4. Why do you think people still rely on single-use plastics, even though they know the environmental impact?
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Person 1: Thinks people rely on plastics for convenience and habit.
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Person 2: Says people don’t change because they don’t see the direct impact.
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Person 3: Thinks people are too busy to care or don’t know how serious the problem is.
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Person 4: Thinks people rely on plastics because it’s cheap and always available.
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Person 5: Believes people don’t stop using plastic because they think one person’s actions don’t matter.
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5. What suggestions do you have for encouraging others to use less single-use plastic?
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Person 1: Suggests schools and social media can help spread awareness.
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Person 2: Suggests making eco-friendly products cheaper to encourage change.
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Person 3: Suggests using shocking images in campaigns to make people care.
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Person 4: Suggests rewards for people who use eco-friendly products.
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Person 5: Suggests governments should make stricter rules to reduce plastic use.
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6. How do you think single-use plastic waste affects the environment and future generations?
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Person 1: Believes plastic waste will harm wildlife and make the planet unhealthy for future generations.
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Person 2: Worries about plastic pollution in the ocean harming sea animals.
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Person 3: Believes plastic waste will cause long-term damage to nature and health.
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Person 4: Fears plastic will ruin natural beauty spots and kill marine life.
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Person 5: Believes plastic pollution will affect food chains and water quality in the future.
Conclusion
The interviews showed that most people are aware of the problems caused by single-use plastics, with many feeling guilty or overwhelmed by how much they use in daily life. While some have made small changes, like using reusable bottles or bags, they face challenges such as the high cost of eco-friendly products, convenience of plastics, and forgetting to carry reusable items. People also believe that habits, lack of awareness, and the ease of plastic use make it hard to reduce reliance on it. Suggestions for change included spreading awareness through schools and social media, offering rewards for eco-friendly choices, lowering the cost of alternatives, and having stricter government rules. This feedback helped me realise the importance of focusing my poster on simple, relatable messages that highlight small changes people can make, along with inspiring quotes that create an emotional connection. For my promotional video, I plan to show real-life impacts of plastic waste, include strong visuals to grab attention, and share personal stories or tips to make the message more powerful and relatable.