From Ocean Waste to Illuminating Design: Upcycled PE Lamps Inspired by Jellyfish
Polycycle Illumination is a unique collection of table lamps made from upcycled polyethylene (PE) plastic film. Designed by Xuanhao Li, a CMF (Colour, Material, Finish) and computational designer, the project raises awareness about marine pollution while showing how digital and artisanal methods can turn waste into functional, poetic objects. The lamps are part of a broader movement towards sustainable materials in product and interior design.
Plastic Bags and the Ocean Threat
Each year, up to one trillion plastic bags are used worldwide. A small portion—between 1% and 3%—ends up in the ocean. Their translucent texture resembles jellyfish, which often confuses sea turtles and other marine animals. Ingesting these plastics can cause serious health problems or even death.
Polycycle Illumination draws attention to this issue. The lamps mimic jellyfish in form, using the plastic’s natural translucency to create soft, glowing light. This transformation—from pollution to product—highlights the power of design to raise awareness and inspire change.
A Digital and Manual Design Process
The lamp design begins with parametric modeling. Algorithms generate the jellyfish shape using interlocking, stitch-like units. The material comes from HDPE sleeves used to package fabric rolls—an often-overlooked waste stream in the textile industry.
The process includes cleaning the plastic, fusing it into flat sheets using heat pressing, and cutting the units with a CNC machine. These units are then assembled by hand into flexible, durable lampshades. The result is a light fixture that is both sculptural and sustainable.
Aesthetic and Environmental Benefits
Polycycle Illumination offers a new life for plastic film waste, which is difficult to recycle by traditional methods. The design makes use of the material’s thermoplastic qualities, flexibility, and transparency.
For interior designers and product developers, this project shows how upcycled materials can serve as elegant and meaningful design elements. The lamps emit a soft, ocean-inspired glow, adding both function and atmosphere to any space.
A Symbol of Circular Design
By combining eco-conscious storytelling with computational design, Polycycle Illumination bridges material innovation and emotional design. It encourages more mindful material use while offering a practical solution to plastic waste.
This project reflects a growing demand in design disciplines for materials that are not only sustainable but also rich in narrative and form.
Source & Photos: Xuanhao Li