PLAGLA MAG Vol. 2

MAG vol2

---INTERVIEW---

Please introduce yourself!

I'm Eri Ishiyama, the representative and director of Deep Sea Choir, where we "sing and think about the ocean." We sing various sea-themed songs as a women's choir, and we also explain various ocean-related topics through photo essays and interviews. Additionally, we organize "Small Plastic Collection Events" – beach cleanups that are easy to join and contribute to upcycling.

What inspired you to become aware of environmental issues?

I was born and raised in a nature-rich area with many rice paddies. When I was in junior high, I participated in an initiative to "increase fireflies," and that's when I started to realize that the local nature I took for granted was actually very precious. The ocean was always close yet distant, something I admired, but I was shocked when I heard that "by 2050, there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean."

What sustainable practices do you personally engage in?

I believe that "shopping is voting." Whenever I buy something, I try my best to consider the materials, origin, manufacturing process, packaging, and even where I buy it, to make the best choice I can.

What was your experience using PLAGLA glasses?

I use both the blue light blocking glasses and the sunglasses, and both are lightweight, fit well, and are comfortable to wear! I also like that there are no metal parts and the frames are stylish. Both are brown, and the moderate brightness makes them easy to use in various situations.

Please tell us about situations where you use PLAGLA glasses.

I use the blue light blocking glasses when working on the computer, and the sunglasses when I go out on sunny days. I hadn't owned either of these before, but I bought them because I wanted to be kind to my eyes and thought I should protect myself from UV rays.

Do you have any sustainable favorite items or daily necessities?

I love the hair ties made by Kaeru Design, which are upcycled from ocean plastic. The plastic we collect at the Deep Sea Choir's "Small Plastic Collection Event" is also sent to Kaeru Design to be made into accessories.

Are there any sustainable items you're interested in getting?

When I want to do my nails, I use ANDIZUMO's water-based nail polish that can be removed with water, and there are so many wonderful colors that I always want to buy them whenever I see them.

Please tell us about any websites or social media you follow.

I follow the website "Pura Nashi Seikatsu" (Plastic-Free Life). It broadens my options for daily life and necessities and is very educational, so I often refer to it. On social media, I learn a lot from the people I follow through the Deep Sea Communications Bureau account, who regularly pick up trash and share information about environmental and social issues.

Please tell us about any activities you'd like to do in the future.

Since establishing the Deep Sea Choir in 2020, we haven't been able to do as many activities as we'd like due to the pandemic. From now on, I want to deliver our songs at many live performances and events, and meet people in person.

Please provide any other information!

We will be performing at the "Seiseki Oto Fes" in Seiseki-Sakuragaoka on Sunday, October 30th. It's our first live performance! We also plan to hold a "Small Plastic Collection Event" at Kasai Rinkai Park on Sunday, November 13th. You can find the latest information on the Deep Sea Choir's website and social media, so please check them out! https://deepseachoir.jp/