Using a screen, I collected ocean-borne plastic debris in the nearshore environment. I rinsed the debris, shredded it, and melted it in a make-shift mold (measuring cup). The resulting “puck” is has desirable material qualities: colorful, interesting pattern, neutrally buoyant, durable/rigid. Research suggested that 350° F would suffice to melt mixed plastics to account for different melting points; I chose the 450° F setting on the oven. ½ cup dry measure yielded 6 in3 of material weighing 1.5 oz.
Inspirations for “furniture” to enhance the beach-going experience:
- Furniture equally well-suited for the sand and water environments
- Wedge pillows used by kids in the library to lay down and read
- Kids will climb any obstacle or rock wall and enjoy jumping off –freely programed or natural features can be more enjoyable than actual playground equipment
- Mixed and free programing and variable (monitored/managed) environmental influence (e.g. furniture left to be relocated by tidal changes)
Jay moorman 