Student climate leader is rallying youth to take on the plastic crisis

Jul 14

Payal Mehta with renowned Canadian environmentalist Dr. David Suzuki during his Stronger Together Tour community event. Photo submitted by: Payal Mehta

By Patricia Lane & Payal Mehta

Payal Mehta has a plastic dream. This young climate leader from Guelph, Ont., was named a 2026 Starfish Canada Fellow for her work starting Reimagining Plastic , a youth-led initiative to raise awareness and take action on the impact of plastics in our environment and bodies.

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People come to our workshops to transform plastic waste into art. Because plastic is so ubiquitous in our daily lives, we often stop noticing it. By providing clean, reused plastic materials, paint and creative guidance, we invite participants to reimagine waste as something beautiful and meaningful rather than something destined for landfill.

As participants create, plastic becomes visible as an environmental issue that affects us all. The artistic process opens the door to learning, reflection and rich conversations about consumption, waste and sustainability.

The workshop is both creative and educational. Participants gain a deeper awareness of plastic pollution, discover practical ways to take environmental action, and learn about opportunities to become involved in broader environmental programs. Everyone leaves with a unique piece of art they created, along with new ideas and inspiration for making a positive difference.

Since our founding less than a year ago, we have collaborated with more than 15 organizations, engaged over 300 people and upcycled more than 500 pieces of plastic. Our workshops are well attended and uplifting, and our partnerships help us reach more people and bring hope.

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YCAA recipients

Peter Allan

Student climate leader is rallying youth to take on the plastic crisis

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Toronto teen is passing climate hope on to children — one story at a time