Transforming Marine Wastes into Art: A Case Study of Participatory Environmental Advocacy and Blue Economy Promotion Along Lagos Coastlines
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/Keywords:
Marine waste; Blue Economy; Participatory art; Environmental advocacyAbstract
Marine pollution along Nigeria's coastline is arguably one of the most critical environmental challenges, threatening biodiversity, coastal livelihoods and the development of the nation's Blue Economy. Nigerian artists and art institutions have overlooked environmental advocacy work, despite the country's 853 kilometres of Atlantic seaboard and its rich tradition of visual culture. This case study chronicles the first phase of a TETFund-sponsored ongoing project titled "Transforming Marine Wastes into Art" implemented by Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos, using participatory art practice, community engagement and upcycled marine waste as integrated tools for environmental advocacy and promotion of the Blue Economy. This case study documents the rationale of the project, design, early experience of implementation and community outcomes, based on field activities carried out in three coastal sites (Wave Beach (Elegushi), Gberufun Island (Badagry) and Ilaje Waterfront (Bariga)) between February and April 2026, and baseline survey data collected from 500 respondents. Results gathered demonstrate tangible progress in community engagement, stakeholder partnerships, and waste plastic collection, with nearly 487 kg of marine debris collected across three locations. The survey results also indicate a significant gap in awareness among members of the coastal community regarding the Blue Economy: only 10% of respondents rated themselves as very familiar with the concept. They also reaffirm strong community support for art-based advocacy approaches (76% agreement) and high latent pro-environmental behavioural intentions. The case study provides the need for transferable lessons for art educators, environmental practitioners, community development workers and policymakers to achieve sustainable development initiatives in Nigerian.
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