A Bournemouth University product design graduate is displaying her final-year project at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai.
Angela Piazza’s project is among 100 selected for the Prototypes for Humanity exhibition from some 3,000 applications from more than 700 universities in more than 100 countries. An initiative by the Art Dubai Group, Prototypes for Humanity gathers together a diverse assembly of innovations that have the power to change the world. Under the broad theme of ‘climate and society’, the 2023 edition of the exhibition aims to present solutions to crucial environmental challenges and promote greater ecological balance.
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Piazza’s product uses shredded non-recyclable plastic waste to make reusable roof tiles. These tiles could provide heat-reflective roofs for communities in India, as well as reduce landfill waste and increase the income of families living in deprived areas who collect waste from dumpsites.
‘I can’t believe I’ve been selected as one of the top 100 students in the world,’ Piazza said. ‘Prototypes for Humanity provided me with a lifetime opportunity, allowing me the honour of meeting representatives from the Dubai Ministry of Possibilities, CEOs and industry designers. Additionally, I had the chance to connect with professors, visitors and amazing students from different cultures at COP28.’
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This is the latest success for Piazza’s work, which last year won a commendation at the New Designers show in London.
‘I am eager to further develop my project and sustain the valuable connections I’ve made,’ she said. ‘I’d love to share my experience with other BU students, strongly encouraging them to give it a try, as this programme has the potential to truly change lives.’