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Upcycled art - 8th December 2023

The Cambodian Ministry of the Environment has praised the work of artist Mean Tithpheap for using old bike and motorcycle tyres in his sculptures. The art school graduate prevents the tyres from being abandoned where they can become breeding grounds for malaria carrying mosquitoes.

The tyres, not being biodegradable, also can’t be burned since that would emit toxic fumes. Four years ago, Tithpheap began using the abandoned tyres to create giant sculptures of animals.

Mean Tithpheap: "I have made some 40 animals from bicycle and motorbike tyres. And the most popular animal is King Kong, I’ve made 10 of them."

With a growing population, the spread of urbanisation and increasing consumerism, the government’s finding it challenging to keep up with waste collection and treatment. Effective recycling of plastic waste proves virtually impossible in the country and some areas are transforming into vast rubbish heaps. Tithpheap hopes his work will serve as an example to all Cambodians to recycle their waste creatively.

Mean Tithpheap: "I appeal to the public to support the recycling of things in Cambodia. It starts with me and if other people, who have learned from me, can also recycle waste like this, we can reduce this tyre waste by a lot."

Having had to drop out of school to help support his family, the 37 year old struggled to follow his passion for art. Now, each of his giant sculptures commands a price of between $2,000 and $3,000, depending on the size, and they are in demand for cafes and hotel resorts as well as individuals.

The Environment Ministry presented Tithpheap with a certificate of appreciation for his contribution to environment protection, natural resource management, biodiversity and sustainable living.