Project ISF: Promoting Plastic Recycling Awareness and Engagement through Student-Led Educational Initiatives Program DUIRI - Discovery Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Research Internship Term Spring 2025 Status Accepted Research Area Global Sustainability Description The current state of plastic recycling globally presents significant challenges, making public awareness more necessary than ever. To address this, we propose working with a DUIRI student to lay the groundwork by investigating the current state of plastic recycling in the Midwest U.S., as well as ongoing events, programs, or movements focused on raising awareness and promoting plastic recycling, while also examining global examples of successful recycling initiatives. The outcomes of this study will be shared with Purdue students to raise awareness of plastic waste and promote understanding of the recycling and upcycling of end-of-life plastics. Supervisor Garam Kim Mentor Do Gyun Kim Type of work required Students will work closely with supervisors to investigate strategies for promoting plastic recycling at Purdue University. This will include designing the event and demonstrations to showcase the recycling process, developing educational materials, and facilitating hands-on activities where participants can engage in creating products from recycled plastics. Websites Raisbeck Advanced Composite Laboratory (RACL): https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/facilities/raisbeck-advanced-composite-laboratory
Composites Manufacturing and Simulation Center (CMSC): https://www.purdue.edu/cmsc/
Qualifications Students who are highly motivated in plastic sustainability and recycling. Credit Hours 0 Weekly Hours 10 (estimated)