Reported by Sodalis Sophea, Menghorng Kao, Somnang Chhum
Re-Plastic Phase II – Exhibition was a continuation of Phase I – Workshop, held in November, where 30 selected youth aged 15–20 showcased their creations in transforming plastic waste into value. The exhibition featured youth-led outputs including sustainable fashion designs, DIY recycled products, and digital awareness campaigns.
Key Takeaways
- Increased Awareness of Single-Use Plastic and Its Environmental Impact: Through a series of structured sessions—including a panel discussion, exhibitions, and a fashion show—participants gained a new understanding of single-use plastic issues and their environmental consequences. The event engaged a total of 100 participants (30 project participants and 70 public audience members) and reinforced the important role of youth in driving sustainable practices.
- Showcasing Youth-Led Environmental Solutions: the exhibition served as a platform for youth to present practical and innovative solutions, such as digital awareness campaigns, DIY upcycled products, and sustainable fashion designs. These initiatives demonstrated how plastic waste can be transformed into valuable outputs while encouraging knowledge sharing with the wider public.
- Strengthening Practical Skills and Teamwork: Program participants took part in hands-on activities, including campaign implementation, product creation, and fashion design using recycled materials. This process strengthened their project management, collaboration, problem-solving, and creative skills, while producing tangible outcomes showcased during the exhibition.
- Promoting Peer Learning and Meaningful Connections: Interactions between program participants and the public audience fostered peer learning, constructive feedback, and networking opportunities. These exchanges enhanced communication skills and created a collaborative space for sharing ideas and experiences related to environmental action.
- Inspiring Behavioral Change and Everyday Action: The exhibition encouraged both participants and visitors to take simple, practical steps to reduce single-use plastic in their daily lives. By highlighting real examples of youth-led initiatives, the activity clearly demonstrated the connection between awareness, practical solutions, and positive behavior change at the community level.
Main Highlights
- Date: 27 December 2025
- Venue or location: CAM-ASEAN Toul Kork
- Participants: Open to the general audience
- No. of participants: 100 participants
Activities Implemented
The Re-Plastic Phase II – Exhibition aimed to raise awareness and empower youth and university students to take action against single-use plastic pollution through creativity, innovation, and environmental engagement. The exhibition showcased youth-led initiatives focused on transforming plastic waste into value, including sustainable fashion designs, DIY recycled products, and digital awareness campaigns. The exhibition provided a platform for young people to present ideas, exchange perspectives, and inspire sustainable practices within the community.
- Session 1: Opening Ceremony
The exhibition commenced with participant registration, followed by the National Anthem and a moment of silence, setting a respectful and formal tone for the event. Opening remarks delivered by Ms. Kao Menghorng and the CAM-ASEAN Representative highlighted the urgency of addressing plastic pollution and emphasized the critical role of youth in driving sustainable change. These remarks officially marked the opening of the Re-Plastic Exhibition and welcomed all participants and guests.
- Session 2: Panel Discussion
The panel discussion, titled “From Waste to Worth: Why the Environment Matters and What Young People Can Do About It” addressed key environmental challenges related to plastic waste. Panelists shared insights, experiences, and practical perspectives on sustainability, encouraging young people to adopt environmentally responsible behaviors and become active advocates for change. Participants gained a deeper understanding of how small, everyday actions can collectively contribute to positive environmental impact.
- Session 3: Exhibition and Project Showcases
This session featured a series of project showcases presented by youth participants. The showcased initiatives included digital campaigns aimed at raising public awareness of single-use plastics, as well as DIY projects demonstrating creative ways to repurpose plastic waste into functional and decorative items. The session enabled participants to present their ideas, explain their concepts, and engage directly with audiences, fostering creativity, innovation, and peer learning.
- Session 4: Fashion Show
A fashion show was organized as part of the exhibition to highlight outfits created from reused and recycled plastic materials. This segment demonstrated how waste can be transformed into wearable art, illustrating the intersection of sustainability, creativity, and design. The fashion show attracted strong audience interest and served as a powerful visual expression of the theme “From Waste to Worth”.
- Session 5: Results Announcement and Closing
The exhibition concluded with the announcement of results to recognize outstanding projects and participant efforts. Closing remarks were delivered by Mr. Chhum Somnang, who expressed appreciation to the organizers, partners, and participants for their commitment to environmental sustainability. The event ended with a group photo session, marking the successful completion of the Re-Plastic Exhibition.
Feedback
“Re-Plastic Program has been a fun and meaningful experience for me. I learned a lot not only about environmental awareness from those amazing speakers, but also about teamwork and creativity. I made new friends and enjoyed working together as a team. One of my favorite parts was turning my imagination into real DIY creations, such as keychains like jellyfish, tulips, and roses. I was also inspired by the amazing projects from other teams, especially the fashion and digital campaign teams. This program helped me realize the importance of caring for our environment. I truly enjoyed every moment, learned a lot from the speakers, and I’m grateful to be part of a program that allows me to have fun and make a positive impact.” — Phalroth Sobenna (DIY Member)
“Through the Re-Plastic program, I had the opportunity to build meaningful networks with many inspiring individuals while deepening my understanding of environmental issues such as microplastics and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program also allowed me to explore my creativity by transforming used plastic into fashion items, helping me discover talents and creative potential I never knew I had.”— Khim Sovanmonyroth (Fashion Member)
“Through Re-Plastic program, I had the chance to work closely with others, face challenges, and learn the true meaning of teamwork and perseverance. Beyond personal growth, the program deepened my understanding of environmental issues, from the impact of single-use plastics to ways we can reduce waste in our daily lives. It also gave me the space to be creative, reflect on my relationship with the environment, and reconnect with my passion for caring for nature while creating experiences and memories I’ll never forget.”— Lin Chan Vornida (Digital Campaign Member)
