Brandon Van Meter

Introduction

In every household, there are items used and thrown away without a second thought. Some of these items are for short-term use and have a short lifecycle when disposed of. Some of these items last a lot longer and have and have a long-lasting effect on the environment. What if we used these items to create rather than destroy? What would our world look like if we created new things with them instead of throwing away our computers, plastic bags, or broken appliances?

Every item we use has a complex lifecycle marked by production, distribution, usage, and disposal. Beyond their practical utility lies a narrative of environmental impact and societal consumption patterns that shape our world. Once we understand the lifecycle of household items, we can better use those items to create upcycled art to create waste and climate change awareness and, hopefully, help people to dispose of said items appropriately.

In this unit, students will learn about the production, distribution, usage, and disposal of two specific items: the household iron and the common laptop. They will then learn about artists that use readymade items and create upcycled art. Once the introduction is complete, students will choose an item(s) in their household to create a work of readymade or upcycled art while also researching to learn about the item’s lifecycle.

Pedagogical Philosophy

My bachelor’s degree is in film and digital video production. I believe that every work of art tells a story. After learning about readymade artists such as Marcel Duchamp and Jeff Koons, I realized that anything can be turned into art, and anything can tell an important story. I also believe that each student has their own story to tell. The more students can relate to what they are creating, the more they are willing to learn about other subjects such as social issues and climate change.

Rationale

My students attend public school in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Our school services grades 6-8, and is a magnet school, meaning students from all over the district must apply to come here. In addition, we are an MYP school which means we have high international standards. This creates a richly diverse student body with many different races, income levels, and religious backgrounds. Many students in 8th grade are not aware of the issues of climate change, regardless of their background. Some students come from neighborhoods with clean streets and good infrastructure, while others might have litter on their sidewalks and dilapidated buildings.

Readymade art and upcycled art are ways to connect to every student. Connecting the issue of climate change to their home environment, local neighborhoods, city, and state will also, I believe, help them to connect to the larger issues involving climate change in our world.

The unit will be used in my 8th grade Advanced Art classroom but could be adapted for High School art or science students by focusing more on the science and less on the art aspect of the unit.

Unit Content

Students will briefly learn about the production, distribution, usage, and disposal of household irons and laptops. From there, they will learn about upcycled art and artists and readymade art and artists. Once they have a strong understanding of the subject matter, they will use items from their own home to create either an upcycled or readymade work of art. During the creation process, the students will research the lifecycle of the item or items they used to create their work of art.

Production

The journey of a household item begins with its production, a process deeply intertwined with resource extraction, manufacturing techniques, and environmental consequences. When we consider irons, for instance, the extraction of metals such as iron and aluminum, along with the molding and assembly processes, paints a picture of resource-intensive endeavors. Similarly, the creation of computers involves intricate component sourcing, assembly lines, and the quest for rare earth metals, all of which come with their own set of environmental implications.

How the iron is made

The manufacturing process of a clothing iron involves several stages and utilizes various primary materials to create a functional and durable product. Typically, the main components of a clothing iron include the soleplate, housing, heating element, thermostat, water tank, and handle. The soleplate, which comes into direct contact with the fabric, is commonly made from materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or ceramic coated metal, chosen for their heat conductivity and durability. The housing, which encases the internal components, is often constructed from heat-resistant plastics or metals such as aluminum or stainless steel. Inside the housing, the heating element, usually made from a high-resistance wire like nichrome, generates the heat necessary for ironing clothes. The thermostat regulates the temperature, ensuring optimal performance and safety. Additionally, a water tank, typically made from plastic, allows for steam generation to aid in the ironing process. Finally, the handle, usually made from heat-resistant plastic or rubber, provides a comfortable grip for the user. Throughout the manufacturing process, quality control measures are implemented to ensure the iron meets safety standards and performance expectations, resulting in a reliable and effective household appliance.

Clothing iron materials

Plastic

Hard plastics, commonly used in a wide range of products from packaging to construction materials, are typically manufactured through a process called polymerization (1). This process involves the conversion of raw materials, primarily petroleum-based compounds like ethylene and propylene, into long chains of molecules known as polymers. During polymerization, monomer molecules undergo chemical reactions under controlled conditions of temperature, pressure, and catalysts to form polymer chains. These chains are then processed further through techniques such as injection molding, extrusion, or compression molding to shape them into the desired final products. Additives such as plasticizers, fillers, and colorants may also be incorporated into the polymer mixture to enhance properties like flexibility, strength, and color.

Despite their widespread use and convenience, hard plastics pose significant environmental challenges due to their persistence in the environment and resistance to degradation(2). Most hard plastics are non-biodegradable, meaning they do not naturally decompose over time like organic materials. As a result, discarded plastic items can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, accumulating in landfills, oceans, and natural habitats. The accumulation of plastic waste poses serious threats to wildlife and ecosystems, as animals may ingest or become entangled in plastic debris, leading to injury, suffocation, and death. Furthermore, plastics can leach harmful chemicals and microplastics into the environment, contaminating soil, water, and air, and potentially entering the food chain. The production of hard plastics also contributes to carbon emissions and energy consumption, further exacerbating environmental impacts. As such, reducing plastic consumption, promoting recycling and waste management practices, and developing alternative materials are crucial steps in mitigating the harmful effects of hard plastics on the environment.

Aluminum

Aluminum, one of the most abundant metals in the Earth’s crust, is primarily mined from bauxite ore. The mining process begins with the extraction of bauxite, typically found in tropical or subtropical regions where large deposits are prevalent. Bauxite is extracted through open-pit mining, where large surface areas are excavated using heavy machinery such as bulldozers and excavators. Once the bauxite ore is exposed, it is then transported to processing plants where it undergoes a series of refining processes. These processes involve crushing and grinding the bauxite ore into smaller particles, followed by chemical extraction methods to separate the aluminum oxide (alumina) from the other components of the ore. The alumina is then further processed through electrolytic reduction to produce pure aluminum metal, which is cast into ingots or processed into various aluminum products. While aluminum mining provides a crucial source of this versatile metal for various industries, it also raises environmental concerns due to habitat disruption, soil erosion, and potential water pollution associated with mining activities. Therefore, sustainable mining practices and environmental regulations are essential to mitigate the environmental impact of aluminum mining operations (3).

Laptop

The manufacturing process of a common laptop involves a complex series of steps and utilizes a variety of materials to assemble a compact and functional device. The primary materials used in laptop manufacturing include metals, plastics, glass, silicon, and various electronic components. The laptop’s chassis, typically made from lightweight yet durable materials such as aluminum, magnesium alloy, or polycarbonate plastics, provides the structural framework and housing for internal components. Inside the chassis, the motherboard serves as the central hub, comprising a variety of materials such as fiberglass, silicon chips, and copper wiring to facilitate communication between components. The display panel, often made from glass or plastic, incorporates liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and backlighting systems to produce images. Keyboards and trackpads feature plastic keys and surfaces with embedded electronic sensors. Additionally, lithium-ion batteries power the laptop, containing a mix of metals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. Throughout the manufacturing process, stringent quality control measures are implemented to ensure reliability, performance, and that safety standards are met, resulting in a sophisticated and versatile computing device suitable for various applications.

Harmful effects of mining elements for computers

Metals play a crucial role in the construction of laptops, providing structural integrity, electrical conductivity, and heat dissipation properties essential for their functionality (4). Among the metals commonly used in laptops are aluminum, copper, and various rare earth metals. The mining and refining processes for these metals involve several stages to extract and purify them for use in computer components.

Aluminum, prized for its lightweight yet sturdy properties, is often used in laptop chassis, frames, and heat sinks. The primary source of aluminum is bauxite ore, which is mined through open-pit or strip-mining methods. Once extracted, the bauxite ore undergoes refining processes to extract alumina, the primary component of aluminum. The alumina is then smelted in electrolytic cells using high temperatures and electricity to produce molten aluminum metal (5). The molten aluminum is cast into ingots or rolled into sheets for further processing into laptop components.

Copper, valued for its excellent electrical conductivity, is used in laptop circuitry, connectors, and heat pipes. Copper is typically mined from sulfide ores through traditional underground or open-pit mining methods (6). Once mined, the copper ore is crushed and ground into a fine powder, then concentrated through flotation or other separation techniques to remove impurities. The concentrated copper ore undergoes smelting and refining processes to produce pure copper cathodes, which are further processed into various forms for use in laptop manufacturing.

Rare earth metals, including elements such as neodymium, dysprosium, and terbium, are used in laptop hard drives, speakers, and display screens for their magnetic and optical properties. These metals are typically extracted as byproducts of mining operations for other metals like iron, copper, and aluminum. The extraction and refining processes for rare earth metals involve complex chemical and metallurgical processes to separate and purify them from other minerals. Due to their scarcity and environmental concerns associated with their extraction, efforts are underway to develop more sustainable methods of sourcing and recycling rare earth metals for use in electronics like laptops. Overall, the mining and refining of metals for use in laptops entail significant environmental and social considerations, highlighting the importance of responsible sourcing and recycling practices in the electronics industry.

Distribution and Consumption

Once these items are crafted, they embark on a journey through supply chains that span the globe, traversing vast distances to reach consumers (7). Along the way, logistics, retail dynamics, and consumer behavior intersect to shape patterns of consumption. Whether it’s the durability of irons or the allure of the latest technological advancements in computers, consumer choices are influenced by factors ranging from marketing strategies to planned obsolescence, subtly steering the lifecycle of these items.

Disposal

As the lifespan of household items nears its end, questions of disposal loom large. Landfills, recycling plants, and incineration facilities become the final destinations, each with its own environmental footprint. In the case of electronic waste, or e-waste, the challenges of recycling complex components and managing hazardous substances underscore the urgency of sustainable disposal practices (8). Yet, amidst these challenges, initiatives such as extended producer responsibility and the promotion of reuse and repair offer glimpses of a circular economy in action.

Recycling

When aluminum is recycled, it undergoes a process that significantly reduces environmental impact while conserving valuable resources. The recycling process begins with collection, where aluminum products such as beverage cans, foil, and packaging are gathered from households, businesses, and recycling centers. These collected items are then transported to recycling facilities, where they undergo sorting and cleaning to remove contaminants and separate different types of aluminum alloys (9). Once sorted, the aluminum is melted down in furnaces, where it is transformed into molten metal. This molten aluminum can then be cast into ingots or rolled into sheets to manufacture new products. Importantly, recycling aluminum requires only a fraction of the energy needed to produce aluminum from raw materials, resulting in significant energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, recycling aluminum helps to preserve natural resources and minimize the environmental impact of mining activities associated with aluminum extraction. Overall, recycling aluminum plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability, conserving resources, and mitigating environmental pollution.

Aluminum Waste

When aluminum is not recycled, its disposal poses significant environmental and health hazards. Aluminum, when discarded in landfills or incinerated, contributes to environmental pollution and resource depletion. In landfills, aluminum waste can take hundreds of years to decompose, releasing harmful substances into the soil and groundwater as it breaks down (10). Additionally, the process of extracting aluminum from bauxite ore requires a considerable amount of energy and resources, leading to increased carbon emissions and habitat destruction associated with mining activities. Furthermore, when aluminum is incinerated, it releases toxic gases and particulate matter into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and respiratory ailments. Moreover, the accumulation of aluminum waste in landfills exacerbates the need for additional landfill space, leading to further habitat destruction and environmental degradation. Thus, the failure to recycle aluminum not only squanders valuable resources but also perpetuates environmental harm and compromises human health.

Laptop Disposal

When a laptop is thrown away, it typically ends up in a landfill or is sent to an electronic waste (e-waste) recycling facility. In landfills, laptops contribute to the growing problem of electronic waste accumulation, as they take up valuable space and pose environmental risks (11). Electronics in landfills can leach hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium into the soil and groundwater, contaminating the surrounding environment and posing risks to human health. Additionally, the components of laptops, including plastics, metals, and electronic circuitry, do not biodegrade and can persist in landfills for decades, further exacerbating environmental pollution and resource depletion.

Alternatively, when laptops are sent to e-waste recycling facilities, they undergo a process of dismantling, sorting, and recycling to recover valuable materials and components. At these facilities, trained workers disassemble laptops manually or with specialized equipment to separate different materials such as plastics, metals, circuit boards, and batteries. These materials are then sorted and processed for recycling, with metals like aluminum, copper, and gold being extracted and reused in new products. Plastics may be shredded and melted down for reuse in manufacturing, while electronic components such as circuit boards and batteries may undergo specialized recycling processes to recover valuable metals and minimize environmental impacts. Through e-waste recycling, laptops can contribute to the conservation of resources, reduction of landfill waste, and prevention of environmental pollution associated with electronic waste disposal.

Ghana, like many other developing countries, has faced significant challenges and harmful effects due to the influx of electronic waste (e-waste) from industrialized nations. The Agbogbloshie area in Accra, often referred to as one of the world’s largest e-waste dumping grounds, has become synonymous with the detrimental impacts of e-waste on both the environment and public health in Ghana. The unregulated dumping and informal recycling of e-waste in Agbogbloshie have led to severe pollution of soil, air, and waterways, as well as adverse health effects among local communities.

One of the most pressing environmental issues associated with e-waste in Ghana is soil contamination. As electronic devices are dismantled and burned to extract valuable metals like copper and aluminum, toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium are released into the environment. These contaminants accumulate in the soil over time, posing risks to agricultural productivity, water sources, and ecosystems. Additionally, the burning of e-waste releases hazardous air pollutants and greenhouse gases, contributing to air pollution and climate change. The health impacts of e-waste exposure on nearby communities are profound, with residents experiencing respiratory problems, skin diseases, neurological disorders, and increased cancer risks due to prolonged exposure to toxic fumes and pollutants. Moreover, the socioeconomic consequences of e-waste pollution in Ghana are far-reaching, affecting vulnerable populations such as informal waste pickers, who often work in unsafe conditions without proper protective gear or access to healthcare. Overall, the harmful effects of e-waste in Ghana underscore the urgent need for comprehensive regulatory measures, sustainable waste management practices, and international cooperation to address the global e-waste crisis and protect the environment and public health.

Readymade and Upcycled Artists: Transforming waste into inspiration

Marcel Duchamp, a pioneering figure in 20th-century art, revolutionized the way we perceive and interact with everyday objects through his concept of readymade art. Duchamp challenged conventional notions of art by selecting mass-produced items, such as a urinal or a bicycle wheel, and presenting them as works of art simply by recontextualizing them within the realm of the gallery. This bold gesture not only questioned the traditional boundaries of art but also sparked profound discussions about the nature of creativity, authorship, and the value of objects in our society (12). Duchamp’s approach to readymades can serve as a powerful vehicle for raising awareness about waste management. By elevating discarded or overlooked objects to the status of art, Duchamp forces us to reconsider the value and potential of everyday items that might otherwise be destined for the landfill. His art challenges us to confront our consumerist culture and reevaluate our relationship with material possessions, encouraging us to find beauty and meaning in the ordinary and to contemplate the consequences of our throwaway society. Through Duchamp’s lens, waste management becomes not just a practical concern but a profound philosophical inquiry into the nature of consumption, sustainability, and human creativity.

Jeff Koons, a prominent figure in contemporary art, employs the concept of readymade art to challenge perceptions and spark conversations about consumer culture and waste management. Through his iconic sculptures and installations, Koons repurposes everyday objects and artifacts, often made from stainless steel, porcelain, or inflatable materials, transforming them into larger-than-life artworks that captivate audiences worldwide (13). By elevating banal and mass-produced items into the realm of high art, Koons prompts viewers to reconsider the value and significance of these objects in a disposable society. Through his readymade art, Koons confronts themes of materialism, excess, and environmental impact, inviting viewers to reflect on their own consumption habits and the consequences of waste generation. Moreover, Koons’ prolific use of readymades serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness between art, culture, and sustainability, inspiring dialogue and action towards more responsible consumption and waste management practices.

Felix Gonzalez-Torres, known for his conceptual and minimalist artworks, has had a profound impact on environmental consciousness through his innovative approach to art. Central to Gonzalez-Torres’ practice is his use of everyday materials and ephemeral installations that invite viewer participation and reflection. Through works such as “Untitled (Portrait of Ross in L.A.)” consisting of piles of candy or “Untitled (America)” comprising strings of light bulbs, Gonzalez-Torres explores themes of impermanence, loss, and collective experience. Moreover, his artworks often incorporate biodegradable or recyclable materials, aligning with principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility. By engaging viewers in a tactile and sensorial experience, Gonzalez-Torres’ art fosters empathy, connection, and awareness of the natural world. Additionally, his emphasis on the ephemeral nature of existence encourages contemplation of the finite resources of our planet and the importance of preserving and protecting the environment for future generations. In this way, Gonzalez-Torres’ art serves as a catalyst for positive environmental action, inspiring viewers to reconsider their relationship with the world around them and embrace a more sustainable way of living.

Ai Weiwei’s artistic practice often incorporates elements of readymade art, where he repurposes found objects and everyday materials to create thought-provoking artworks. This use of readymades aligns with his broader artistic philosophy, which emphasizes the democratization of art and the blurring of distinctions between high and low culture. By transforming ordinary objects into works of art, Ai Weiwei challenges conventional notions of value and authorship, inviting viewers to reconsider the significance of the mundane in the context of contemporary art. Moreover, his use of readymades carries political and social undertones, as it serves as a critique of consumerism, mass production, and global capitalism. Through his innovative appropriation of readymade materials, Ai Weiwei not only expands the possibilities of artistic expression but also underscores the interconnectedness between art, society, and everyday life. This approach resonates deeply with audiences, as it highlights the potential for creativity and meaning in the seemingly ordinary, while also prompting reflection on broader issues of consumption, waste, and cultural identity.

David Irvine, a contemporary artist renowned for his imaginative approach to recycled art, exemplifies how artistic expression can profoundly impact social perceptions about recycling. Through his transformative creations, Irvine breathes new life into discarded objects, infusing them with whimsy, humor, and unexpected narratives (14). By repurposing items such as old paintings, thrift store finds, and vintage objects, Irvine challenges the notion of waste while highlighting the potential for creativity and resourcefulness in recycling. His vibrant and eclectic artworks not only captivate audiences but also serve as powerful reminders of the value inherent in repurposing materials. Irvine’s work inspires viewers to reconsider their relationship with consumption and waste, encouraging them to see discarded items not as disposable but as opportunities for reinvention and artistic expression. Through his innovative use of recycled materials, Irvine sparks conversations about sustainability, consumerism, and the circular economy, ultimately reshaping social perceptions about recycling from a mundane chore to a source of inspiration and possibility.

Vik Muniz’s art holds profound significance in the contemporary art world due to its innovative approach, conceptual depth, and engagement with broader social and cultural themes. Muniz’s work is characterized by his use of unconventional materials, ranging from everyday objects like chocolate, sugar, and garbage to more unexpected mediums such as diamonds and shredded paper. Through his meticulous craftsmanship and inventive techniques, Muniz transforms these materials into captivating and thought-provoking artworks that challenge viewers’ perceptions and spark meaningful dialogue.

One of the reasons why Muniz’s art is so important is its ability to transcend traditional boundaries and blur the distinction between high and low culture. By employing often overlooked or discarded materials, Muniz elevates the mundane to the realm of fine art, prompting viewers to reconsider the value and significance of ordinary objects in contemporary society. Through upcycled materials, Muniz showcases remarkable creativity and technical skills and raises important questions about consumerism, waste, and sustainability. His artworks serve as poignant reminders of the environmental impact of human activities and the need for more mindful consumption and resource management.

Furthermore, Muniz’s art underscores the power of artistic expression to evoke empathy, provoke critical thinking, and foster connections between individuals and communities. Whether recreating iconic images from art history or capturing the resilience of marginalized communities through his photography projects, Muniz’s work transcends cultural and linguistic barriers to resonate with audiences worldwide. Through his innovative use of materials and his commitment to social engagement, Muniz continues to inspire audiences to see the world with fresh eyes and to consider the profound beauty and complexity that surrounds us in everyday life.

Aurora Robson, an acclaimed environmental artist, epitomizes the transformative power of turning garbage into art. Through her innovative and intricate sculptures, installations, and collages, Robson not only showcases her immense artistic talent but also raises critical awareness about the pressing issue of plastic pollution and waste (15). By sourcing materials from landfills, beaches, and other waste streams, Robson confronts viewers with the sheer magnitude of our throwaway culture while simultaneously offering a glimmer of hope through her creative interventions. Through meticulous craftsmanship and a keen eye for beauty in the discarded, Robson breathes new life into materials that would otherwise degrade our environment and harm wildlife. Her art serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for sustainable practices and responsible consumption, inviting audiences to reconsider their relationship with plastic and waste. Robson’s work transcends traditional notions of art, becoming a catalyst for change and inspiring individuals to take action towards a cleaner, healthier planet.

Classroom Activities

Students will bring recyclable and non-recyclable material and an unused household item, such as an iron or a broken laptop, to class to create their work of art. Grocery bags are an example of non-recyclable material, while junk mail and newspapers are examples of recyclable material.

Lesson 1: Understanding the Lifecycle of Household Items

Objective: In this lesson, students will explore the lifecycle of household items such as clothing irons and laptops, focusing on their production, distribution, and disposal processes.

Activities:

1. Presentation: Begin by presenting information about the lifecycle of household items, including the production process, distribution channels, and disposal methods. Discuss how these items are manufactured, packaged, transported, sold, and eventually discarded.

2. Case Studies: Provide case studies focusing on specific household items such as clothing irons and laptops. Explore the materials used in their production, the environmental impacts of manufacturing processes, and the challenges associated with disposal and recycling.

3. Group Discussion: Facilitate a class discussion where students analyze the environmental implications of the lifecycle of household items. Encourage students to consider the energy consumption, resource extraction, and waste generation associated with each stage of the lifecycle.

Lesson 2: Exploring Artists and Their Techniques

Objective: Students will examine how artists like Vik Muniz, Aurora Robson, Jeff Koons, and David Irvine use readymade and upcycled materials to raise awareness about the lifecycle of household items.

Activities:

1. Artist Research: Assign students to research one of the featured artists and investigate how they incorporate readymade and upcycled materials into their artworks. Students should analyze the techniques, themes, and messages conveyed in the artists’ works.

2. Presentation: Have students present their findings to the class, highlighting examples of artworks by the selected artists and discussing how they address issues related to the production, distribution, and disposal of household items.

3. Group Discussion: Lead a group discussion where students compare and contrast the artistic approaches of Vik Muniz, Aurora Robson, Jeff Koons, and David Irvine. Encourage students to reflect on how these artists use art as a medium to communicate messages about environmental sustainability and responsible consumption.

Lesson 3: Creating Upcycled Artworks

Objective: Students will apply their understanding of the lifecycle of household items and the artistic techniques of Vik Muniz, Aurora Robson, Jeff Koons, and David Irvine to create their own upcycled artworks.

Activities:

1. Upcycling Workshop: Provide students with discarded materials like old clothing, cardboard, plastic bottles, and electronic components. Instruct students to brainstorm ideas and sketch designs for their upcycled artworks, considering the themes of waste management and environmental awareness.

2. Hands-on Creation: Allow students time to create their upcycled artworks, encouraging experimentation with different materials and techniques. Provide guidance and support as students bring their creative visions to life.

3. Reflection: After completing their artworks, have students reflect on their creative process and the messages conveyed through their artworks. Discuss the significance of using art as a medium to raise awareness about the lifecycle of household items and promote environmental stewardship.

Lesson 4: Gallery Walk and Reflection

Objective: Students will showcase their upcycled artworks and reflect on the broader themes explored throughout the unit.

Activities:

1. Gallery Walk: Arrange a gallery-style display of students’ upcycled artworks around the classroom or school. Invite students, teachers, and parents to participate in a gallery walk, viewing and discussing each other’s artworks.

2. Peer Feedback: Encourage students to provide constructive feedback to their peers, focusing on the effectiveness of conveying messages related to waste management and environmental awareness through art.

3. Reflection: Facilitate a class discussion where students reflect on their experiences creating upcycled artworks and the broader themes explored throughout the unit. Encourage students to consider the impact of art on raising awareness for proper disposal of household items and promoting environmental stewardship.

Bibliography

Jordi Cravioto a, et al. “Comparative Analysis of Average Time of Use of Home Appliances.” Procedia CIRP, Elsevier, 19 Apr. 2017, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212827116314172.

Chatterbuzz. “How to Dispose of a Laptop? (Safely and Securely).” Great Lakes Electronics, 7 Oct. 2022, www.ewaste1.com/how-to-dispose-of-laptop/.

Foster, Wanda, and Christina Walkey. Crinolines and Crimping Irons: Victorian Clothes: How They Were Cleaned and Cared For. Owen, 1985.

Klöckner, Christian Andreas, and Laura K. Sommer. “Visual art inspired by climate change—an analysis of audience reactions to 37 artworks presented during 21st UN Climate Summit in Paris.” PLOS ONE, vol. 16, no. 2, 19 Feb. 2021, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0247331.

“The Readymade – Modern Art Terms and Concepts.” The Art Story, www.theartstory.org/definition/readymade-and-found-object/. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.

Sommer, Laura  Kim, and Christian Andreas Klockner. “Supplemental material for does activist art have the capacity to raise awareness in audiences?—a study on climate change art at the artcop21 event in Paris.” Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, 1 July 2019, https://doi.org/10.1037/aca0000247.supp.

StudySmarter UK. “Environmental Impacts of Computers.” www.studysmarter.co.uk/explanations/computer-science/issues-in-computer-science/environmental-impact-of-computers/#:~:text=Computers%20rely%20on%20a%20plethora,deforestation%20and%20loss%20of%20biodiversity. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.

Conservative Law Foundation. “How Plastic Is Made Is Harmful to People and the Environment.” 13 Feb. 2024, blog, www.clf.org/blog/how-plastic-is-made/..

Wesdock, James C, and Ian M F Arnold. “Occupational and Environmental Health in the Aluminum Industry: Key Points for Health Practitioners.” Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4131940/.

ŞEREN, NURBANU, and SEYFULLAH GÜL. “‘an innovative and interdisciplinary perspective on environmental issues through ecological art projects: A mixed methods study.’” Romanian Review of Geographical Education, vol. 11, no. 1, 2 Oct. 2022, pp. 73–91, https://doi.org/10.23741/rrge120225.

Bhutada Graph, Govind. “How Is Aluminum Made?” Elements by Visual Capitalist, 12 Aug. 2022, elements.visualcapitalist.com/how-is-aluminum-made/.

Notes

1. Conservative Law Foundation, http://www.clf.org/blog/how-plastic-is-made/
2. Ibid.
3. Bhutada Graph, Govind. “How Is Aluminum Made?”
4. StudySmarter UK. “Environmental Impacts of Computers.”
5. Ibid.
6. Chatterbuzz. “How to Dispose of a Laptop? (Safely and Securely).”
7. Ibid.
8. Ibid.
9. Wesdock et al, “Occupational and Environmental Health in the Aluminum Industry: Key Points for Health Practitioners.”
10. Ibid.
11. Chatterbuzz. “How to Dispose of a Laptop? (Safely and Securely).”
12. Klöckner et al, “Visual art inspired by climate change.”
13. “The Readymade – Modern Art Terms and Concepts.” The Art Story
14. Klöckner et al, “Visual art inspired by climate change.”
15. Summer and Klockner. “Supplemental material…”