WINDHOEK, June 9 (Xinhua) -- A manikin adorned by fashionable items, art portraits, bricks, car toys and products recycled from plastic were the center stage of a visual exhibition embraced by art lovers and dwellers in Windhoek, Namibia's capital, Friday.
The exhibition, featuring Solutions to Plastic Pollution, was held to observe World Environment Day, with more than 20 creatives showcasing artworks and innovations made from plastic waste.
As Namibia moves to promote environmental protection, the exhibition served as a platform to raise awareness on plastic pollution that is negatively impacting the planet and mainly focusing on finding champions and best solutions to plastic pollution, said Lorraine Goases, the head of environmental engineering at the City of Windhoek authority.
"The fusion of art and the environment has the potential to promote more friendly solutions to address pollution and drive the message to the masses in promoting a clean environment, health and safety," Goases said.
Meanwhile, the artists are keen to curb plastic pollution, encourage communities and propose transformative interventions to curb waste.
Ester Thomas, an artist from Windhoek, showcased fashionable items such as handbags made from plastic bags.
"The aim is to turn trash into treasure. It's not just about fashion, but to protect the environment through unique items and creativity," she said.
The youth are further maximizing, reusing, recycling and upcycling to explore business opportunities. The youngsters from Opuwo town in Kunene region, northwestern Namibia, are transforming plastic waste into car toys after noticing the negative impact of plastics in their community.
"While we keep the environment clean, we give joy to children yet still generate an income to grow our business. The goal is to have a positive impact," he said.
The exhibition meanwhile compliments the Namibian government's effort to control pollution. In 2018, Namibia banned plastic carrier bags from all protected areas in the country and later introduced a plastic bag levy in August 2019.
