Two girls holding signs saying “Bye-Bye Plastic Bags” on a beach surrounded by collected trash.
Bye-Bye Plastic Bags
Bye-Bye Plastic Bags
Average Rating: 0.0
Country: Indonesia
Ages: 8-10
Author: Shamim Padamsee
Publisher: Zamasama Original
Illustrator: Ashok Rajagopalan

About The Story

Plastic pollution has a harmful impact on our environment—it endangers marine and human health and clogs waterways. Plastics don’t disappear; they persist in the ecosystem for centuries. Scientists estimate that over half the world’s sea turtles and nearly every seabird have eaten plastic. Melati and Isabel Wijsen were just school-aged children when they decided to act. Upset by the rising plastic waste swamping their beloved island of Bali, they launched a movement: Bye-Bye Plastic Bags. Inspired by great leaders, like Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, despite facing many hurdles, they sisters persisted—until finally, plastic bags were banned across the island. Their story is a beacon of hope for youth-led climate action, showing that big change can start with small, determined voices.

Themes

Environment & Conservation

Sub Themes

Plastic Pollution
Youth Activism
Change makers

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

  • Understand the effects of plastic pollution on our oceans and health.
  • Recognize how children around the world are leading environmental change
  • Feel empowered to take small actions that help create a cleaner world
  • Appreciate that caring for the Earth connects people of all cultures, geographies, and traditions

Lesson Plan

  • This story is a compelling gateway into climate activism and marine conservation.
  • Students will explore how plastic use affects the waterways - oceans, rivers and lakes.
  • Show how children can organize campaigns to manage plastic waste.
  • Melati and Isabel's real-life success inspires learners to envision their own impact.

Activities

  • Plastic-Free Audit: Track plastic use at home or school for one day. What alternatives can you find?
  • Design an Advocacy Poster: Create a poster encouraging plastic reduction or ocean clean-ups
  • Locate Bali and Other Activist Regions: Use a world map to find Bali. Discuss other places where children are leading environmental change
  • Compare Campaigns: Research similar youth movements (e.g. Greta Thunberg’s, Indian Ocean cleanups) and share what you learned

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

  • Have you ever noticed how much plastic we use every day? Where do you see it most?
  • What do you think happens to plastic after we throw it away?
  • Why do you think it’s important to care about how our actions affect the planet?

During reading

  • What made Melati and Isabel feel they needed to take action?
  • What challenges did they face and how did they keep going?
  • How did their efforts spread beyond Bali?

After reading

  • If you had to stop using one plastic item starting today, what would it be and why?
  • Why do you think children all over the world are stepping up for the environment?
  • What’s one small step you can take to help the Earth?
  • How can we learn from kids in other places and even in other countries who are protecting the planet?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

Encourages reducing plastic use and supporting sustainable practices.

SDG 13 – Climate Action

Highlights children as climate action leaders making a real difference.

SDG 14 – Life Below Water

Focuses on protecting marine ecosystems threatened by plastic waste.

Comments

Comments

  • BYE-BYE Plastic should become a must-read for schools and climate enthusiasts. A powerful, relevant, and factual account written lucidly with appropriate illustrations.

    Well-done Zamasama!

    soniya Mawani

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