In a clever combination of digital and in-person experience, York University launched the world’s tiniest lecture hall to spur action on the giant problem of microplastics, and anyone on the planet can step inside.
The micro-lecture hall is part of a new art installation unveiled at Vari Hall and Glendon’s Centre of Excellence. An exact replica of a theatre-style lecture hall, the transparent plexi-glass model – made mostly from recycled plastics removed from Lake Ontario – features tiny chairs, a tiny screen and even tiny people.
By scanning a QR code, anyone can enter virtually and experience a six-minute micro-lecture on microplastics, ubiquitous hazardous pollutants that have been recognized as a global environmental risk. The lecture is delivered by Professor Shooka Karimpour, who is a part of an inter-disciplinary team at York whose research aims to address the problem of microplastics in Lake Ontario to support environmental policies which will benefit all Canadians and beyond.
In embracing its commitment to right the future, York has been recognized internationally for ongoing work to address the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations. Through the University’s research, teaching, partnerships and campus practices, York has ranked 33rd in the world on last year’s Times Higher Education Impact ranking.
Watch the full micro-lecture, The Macro Problem with Microplastics, and learn how you can drive positive change towards a sustainable future.