Co-creative media for publicising the upcycling of plastic waste products incorporated in security vests for civil and military use

This study examines the growing issue of plastic waste accumulation and its environmental impact by applying the Circular Economy (CE) model in waste upcycling within Phitsanulok Province, Thailand. The escalating volume of plastic waste, driven by urbanization and rising consumption, presents significant threats to ecosystems and waste management systems. The research seeks to address these challenges through sustainable practices by fostering collaboration between municipalities and private stakeholders. The study focuses on developing the Upcycled Army Vest (UAV), a prototype created from upcycled polyvinyl chloride in partnership with local communities and military personnel from Phitsanulok and Lopburi Provinces. Using a Participatory Action Research approach, 60 participants contributed to three project stages: data collection, media production and assessment. Although the UAV prototype does not provide full security, it demonstrates the potential of upcycling for both military and civilian applications. The research highlights the effectiveness of co-created media in raising awareness of recycling and upcycling. Targeting diverse audiences, including the Royal Thai Army, academics, artists and local communities, the media emphasized the economic, cultural and artistic value of sustainable waste management. Through compelling narratives and visuals, it showcased the transformative potential of waste materials. While aligned with CE principles emphasizing reuse and recycling, the project’s link to the biocircular green economic framework is less defined, as plastic waste is not a biological resource. The findings underscore the scalability of upcycling initiatives, fostering community engagement and advancing environmental and economic sustainability.