Sophie Lewis

Less than 5mm — The plastics we don’t see in the world, is a research-led project that responds to the question of how can communication design be used to raise awareness of the micro-plastics effect on coral reefs, and encourage a shift in mentality of single-use plastic? Micro-plastics are defined as fragmented plastic particles of less than 5mm, yet how can such tiny particles leave huge impacts on coral reefs? Since the 1950s, plastic has been marketed as a desirable product, but it is destroying ecosystems.

Less than 5mm encompasses the concept of desirability and beauty, creating a facade to draw the reader in, only to uncover the raw truth of micro-plastics. Conscious design decisions were considered to ensure that the publication wasn’t adding to the issue of ocean plastic pollution, through the use of risograph printing using soy-based inks. The publication aims to shift guilt into action, challenge consumer habits, and encourage individuals to make micro-changes in their daily lives. From micro-plastics to micro-change.