Chemistry
Turning Plastic Waste into Paver (Brick)

Discover how plastic waste can be transformed into durable paver bricks, a step toward sustainable solutions for Papua New Guinea.
The University of Papua New Guinea's Science, Research and Innovation Society (UPNG SRIS), through its Environmental Sustainability divisional student members, proudly presents our sixth (6) and final laboratory sesison for the 2026 academic year, titled as:
"Turning Plastic Waste into Paver (Brick)"
Plastic waste is an increasing environmental challenge, particularly in urban communities where inadequate waste management can lead to littering, blocked drainage systems and pollution of land and waterways. The project, by the Environmental Science & Sustainability divisional members of UPNG SRIS, explores an innovative way of addressing this problem by converting selected plastic waste into useful paving materials.
The project demonstrates how waste plastic can be collected, processed and combined with suitable aggregate materials to produce pavers. Beyond waste reduction, the initiative promotes recycling, resource recovery and circular-economy thinking while providing students with practical experience in environmental science and sustainable innovation.
Through this laboratory session, participants will observe how an environmental problem can be transformed into an opportunity for scientific research, practical innovation and sustainable development.
What you will learn:
• Understand plastic waste & its impact on communities.
• See recycling in action by turning waste into durable pavers.
• Explore circular economy & resource recovery.
• Gain hands‑on experience in sustainable innovation.
Discover how plastic waste can be transformed into durable paver bricks, a step toward sustainable solutions for Papua New Guinea. 🌍💡
All students and schools within UPNG are warmly invited to join this inspiring session. Let’s learn, share, and build a greener future together!
Strengthening our 2026 theme:
Spark your Curiosity: Discover. Innovate. Inspire.

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