Planet or Plastic?

Section 1: Plastics – A Modern Marvel

The invention of plastic changed the world. The first plastics were created 150 years ago and few inventions have had such a profound impact on the entire world. From the mid-1800s and a competition to find a cheaper, more readily available substitute for ivory, to the early 20th century where suddenly, anything and everything could be made of plastic – and was. Plastic is a modern marvel, it made space travel possible, modern medicine relies on it, it is an essential way clean water is delivered to communities in need, it keeps first responders safe, just to name a few of its crucial roles. The exhibition begins with this history of invention and innovation. 

Section 2: The Darker Side of Plastics

How much is too much of a good thing? This section contrasts how plastics have evolved from a vital tool of industry in the 1940s to today’s version, a light, cheap, mouldable and sanitary ‘miracle’ material. In this section National Geographic photographers expose the ways in which our natural flora and fauna are, in some cases literally, drowning in plastic pollution. When plastic reaches the oceans of the world, its benefits to humans – its light weight and durability – become harmful to animal species. Animals of all sizes, from zooplankton to whales ingest microplastics with dire consequences. A shining light in the dark is the various community initiatives profiled in this section, providing an income to individuals and industrious inspiration for change.

Section 3: The Haunting Art of Plastic Pollution

Did you know that over 8 billion kilos of plastic ends up in the ocean each year? This is roughly equivalent to one million garbage trucks dumping their full loads straight into the ocean. This is difficult to visualise and this is where photographers, artists and activists are an essential part of the conversation. In this section we profile images that speak to the scale of the problem. These photographs are at once alluring and repulsive.  When photographer and National Geographic Explorer Mandy Barker began taking photographs of the plastic waste she collected on various coastlines, Barker said she “wanted to create something that would resonate”. Barker’s images draw you in and then they immediately shift your perspective.

Section 4: Steps Toward A Cleaner Future

In this section we explore a number of successful citizen-led campaigns around the world that are making a huge difference to the global plastic waste crisis. While some of these efforts include recycling and redesign, other innovators are also discovering new ways to recycle or create less waste. Excitingly, cutting-edge science and technology are also providing new solutions to the plastic crisis.  In this section we meet some of National Geographic’s explorers, fellows and grantees who are addressing the problem of plastic waste, and we find out how they believe we can clean up our oceans and keep them that way.

Section 5: Science in Action

Scientists, engineers and innovators are looking for ways to bolster community action and inspire government policy change. They are engineering new materials that break down faster after they are discarded, finding new uses for the plastics we already have, and developing more effective strategies for capturing waste that escapes the disposal stream. Their research is also illuminating the scope of the plastics problem. In this section are profiles of some of National Geographic’s explorers, fellows, and grantees who are addressing the problem of plastic waste. Explore how they are developing ways to clean up our oceans and keep them that way.

Section 6: Choosing Planet Over Plastic

Did you know there are six simple things you can do every day to reduce your plastic use at home and work?  In this section we look at how, when faced with dozens of decisions every day, we can make a positive change and a real and lasting impact. Take the National Geographic pledge and determine what strategies each of us can put in place. Citizen–led campaigns have resulted in the increasingly wide-spread use of reusable metal straws and the return of glass over plastic bottles. Public interest is the catalyst that will continue to drive resources toward waste management practices. Do your part, choose planet over plastic.

Educational Interactive Space

The educational Interactive Space in the exhibition focuses on how COVID-19 has increased our usage of single-use plastic, especially through the usage of disposable face masks. It asks the question, "Have you ever wondered what happens to your disposable mask when you’re done with it?"  Masks help us stay safe and protect our community but that doesn’t mean we should let them harm the environment.

Find your own path on a trail in the Interactive Space that includes interactive challenges which reveal the damaging consequences of our increased use of disposable plastic. The path winds toward a powerful reflective conclusion, a mirror in which you are faced with yourself and your choices. What happens to your single use plastic after you’ve used it? What choices can you make to be a better friend of the environment?

The Interactive Space uses ArtScience Museum's 'feet-first' approach to tactile interaction within the gallery, inviting visitors to activate interaction stations with their feet, instead of their hands.