Nurse Turns Beach Plastic Into Art

A nurse from Brighton is actively combating the pervasive issue of plastic pollution on the UK's shores by transforming collected marine debris into art. Sammie Aplin, an NHS nurse and a student at the University of Brighton, dedicates her free time to cleaning beaches.

Beginning her initiative in 2020, Aplin collects plastic waste from the tide line, incorporating it into her artwork to prevent it from reaching landfills. Her Instagram page, The Plastic Coast, now boasts thousands of followers, with many eagerly awaiting her bespoke pieces.

Aplin observes a growing public awareness of environmental impact, stating, "People do care about the planet and they really want to help." Her unique business allows her to balance her nursing career, studies, and artistic endeavors.

Brighton's seafront also sees efforts from Leave No Trace Brighton, an action group dedicated to preserving its health. Founding director Coral Evans notes the persistent problem, especially during warmer months, describing the recent heatwave's impact as "diabolical."

In 2025, Leave No Trace Brighton successfully cleared 800.75kg of waste, predominantly plastic, with 78% of it being recyclable. This aligns with findings from the Marine Conservation Society, which reported single-use plastic on 97% of UK and Channel Islands beaches surveyed last year.

Evans emphasizes the danger of microplastics to marine life, as small fragments can be mistaken for food. She commends Aplin's work, noting a strong relationship between their organizations. Leave No Trace Brighton occasionally provides Aplin with suitable 'treasures' from their cleanups, acknowledging that her art not only beautifies but also raises crucial awareness.