13 Million Tons of Plastic and Silent Cries: Joan Chan’s ‘Just Comics’ Challenges Our Conscience

A garbage truck's worth of plastic enters the ocean every single minute. According to the United Nations, at least 800 species worldwide are suffering from marine debris, and a staggering 80% of that litter is plastic. Each year, up to 13 million metric tons of plastic end up in our waters, turning the cradle of life into a toxic graveyard.

Joan Chan: Giving a Voice to the Voiceless

To bridge the gap between these cold statistics and human empathy, 32-year-old Hong Kong artist Joan Chan launched her digital series, Just Comics. Having spent over 10 years defending animal rights, Chan uses her art to expose the harsh realities of factory farming and industrial production. Her childhood, spent reading comics in her parents' newspaper store, laid the foundation for her global activism today.

The Painful Reality of 'Production' Animals

Chan’s work often focuses on those we find hardest to empathize with, such as fish and crustaceans, which are frequently viewed as mere commodities. Although she draws slowly—taking 1-2 days per piece—each comic is the result of intensive research. Her goal is to strip away the industrial facade and remind us that these are sentient beings capable of profound suffering. Her heartbreaking stories have resonated with millions, proving that art can be a powerful tool for social change.