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AP PHOTOS: Designers turn plastic trash into treasures

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AP PHOTOS: Designers turn plastic trash into treasures
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AP PHOTOS: Designers turn plastic trash into treasures

2019-04-25 16:50 Last Updated At：17:10

Scientists and environmentalists have long warned about the dangers of plastic pollution, especially now that plastic trash of all types is choking the world's rivers and oceans. High-end designers have responded by "upcycling" discarded objects into unique, desirable design pieces.

One Milan art expert has launched an initiative dubbed Guiltless Plastic on the sidelines of Milan's premier Furniture Fair design showcase, commissioning one-of-a-kind pieces made by top designers from discarded plastic and hoping to inspire a wider movement.

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In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Italian gallerist Rossella Orlandi sits on Spanish designer Nacho Carbonell's chair 'Re-evolution', made with recycled plastic from packaging for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

Scientists and environmentalists have long warned about the dangers of plastic pollution, especially now that plastic trash of all types is choking the world's rivers and oceans. High-end designers have responded by "upcycling" discarded objects into unique, desirable design pieces.
In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Fabio Novembre poses sitting on his 'Jolly Roger' chair, made with upcycled plastics, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

The goal is to bring attention to the potential to transform and repurpose recycled plastic, some reclaimed directly from the sea.
In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, from left, designers Piero and Francesco Lissoni pose next to their creation set consisting of a set of bowl, a vase and a lamp, made with upcycled plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

"There is no such thing as waste, because time only knows reinvention," she said.
In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Australian designer Brodie Neill poses next to his creation '"Capsule: Ocean Plastic Hourglass", on a table made with his self-created Ocean Terrazzo material, made with plastic waste from oceans, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Australian designer Brodie Neill poses next to his creation '"Capsule: Ocean Plastic Hourglass", on a table made with his self-created Ocean Terrazzo material, made with plastic waste from oceans, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, Spanish designer Fernando Mastrangelo poses sitting on his creation 'Tombstone Chair', at the National Museum of Science and Technology, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, Spanish designer Fernando Mastrangelo poses sitting on his creation 'Tombstone Chair', at the National Museum of Science and Technology, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, Italian photographer Maurizio Galimberti, poses next to his creation made with Polaroid unused cartridges, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, Italian photographer Maurizio Galimberti, poses next to his creation made with Polaroid unused cartridges, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Tiziano Vudafieri poses under to his creation 'The Wilhem Lamp', made of recycled polycaronate, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Tiziano Vudafieri poses under to his creation 'The Wilhem Lamp', made of recycled polycaronate, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Design artistic director Barnaba Fornasetti poses in front of a paravent folding screen 'Fornasettiana Remix', made with regenerated polystyrene, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Design artistic director Barnaba Fornasetti poses in front of a paravent folding screen 'Fornasettiana Remix', made with regenerated polystyrene, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, designer Patricia Urquiola relaxes sitting on her creation 'Wasting Time Daybed' made from upcycled plastic for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, designer Patricia Urquiola relaxes sitting on her creation 'Wasting Time Daybed' made from upcycled plastic for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Friday, April 19, 2019, Italian designer Massimiliano Locatelli lies on a sunbed made with upcycled plastic bottles, called 'Anonymous Design Beach lounger', for the the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 19, 2019, Italian designer Massimiliano Locatelli lies on a sunbed made with upcycled plastic bottles, called 'Anonymous Design Beach lounger', for the the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Matteo Cibic poses next to his creation ''Cabinet -oh', made with recycled packaging plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Matteo Cibic poses next to his creation ''Cabinet -oh', made with recycled packaging plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Piet Hein Eek poses next to his creation 'Electronic Man', made with recycled plastic pieces of variuos electronic devices, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Piet Hein Eek poses next to his creation 'Electronic Man', made with recycled plastic pieces of variuos electronic devices, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Sunday, April 14, 2019, designer Lucio Micheletti poses next to his creation 'Victory', made with maple wood and recycled plastic from bottles and containers, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Sunday, April 14, 2019, designer Lucio Micheletti poses next to his creation 'Victory', made with maple wood and recycled plastic from bottles and containers, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
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In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Italian gallerist Rossella Orlandi sits on Spanish designer Nacho Carbonell's chair 'Re-evolution', made with recycled plastic from packaging for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

Scientists and environmentalists have long warned about the dangers of plastic pollution, especially now that plastic trash of all types is choking the world's rivers and oceans. High-end designers have responded by "upcycling" discarded objects into unique, desirable design pieces.

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Fabio Novembre poses sitting on his 'Jolly Roger' chair, made with upcycled plastics, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

The goal is to bring attention to the potential to transform and repurpose recycled plastic, some reclaimed directly from the sea.

In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, from left, designers Piero and Francesco Lissoni pose next to their creation set consisting of a set of bowl, a vase and a lamp, made with upcycled plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

"There is no such thing as waste, because time only knows reinvention," she said.

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Australian designer Brodie Neill poses next to his creation '"Capsule: Ocean Plastic Hourglass", on a table made with his self-created Ocean Terrazzo material, made with plastic waste from oceans, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Australian designer Brodie Neill poses next to his creation '"Capsule: Ocean Plastic Hourglass", on a table made with his self-created Ocean Terrazzo material, made with plastic waste from oceans, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, Spanish designer Fernando Mastrangelo poses sitting on his creation 'Tombstone Chair', at the National Museum of Science and Technology, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, Spanish designer Fernando Mastrangelo poses sitting on his creation 'Tombstone Chair', at the National Museum of Science and Technology, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, Italian photographer Maurizio Galimberti, poses next to his creation made with Polaroid unused cartridges, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, Italian photographer Maurizio Galimberti, poses next to his creation made with Polaroid unused cartridges, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Tiziano Vudafieri poses under to his creation 'The Wilhem Lamp', made of recycled polycaronate, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Tiziano Vudafieri poses under to his creation 'The Wilhem Lamp', made of recycled polycaronate, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Design artistic director Barnaba Fornasetti poses in front of a paravent folding screen 'Fornasettiana Remix', made with regenerated polystyrene, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Design artistic director Barnaba Fornasetti poses in front of a paravent folding screen 'Fornasettiana Remix', made with regenerated polystyrene, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, designer Patricia Urquiola relaxes sitting on her creation 'Wasting Time Daybed' made from upcycled plastic for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, designer Patricia Urquiola relaxes sitting on her creation 'Wasting Time Daybed' made from upcycled plastic for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 19, 2019, Italian designer Massimiliano Locatelli lies on a sunbed made with upcycled plastic bottles, called 'Anonymous Design Beach lounger', for the the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 19, 2019, Italian designer Massimiliano Locatelli lies on a sunbed made with upcycled plastic bottles, called 'Anonymous Design Beach lounger', for the the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Matteo Cibic poses next to his creation ''Cabinet -oh', made with recycled packaging plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Matteo Cibic poses next to his creation ''Cabinet -oh', made with recycled packaging plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Piet Hein Eek poses next to his creation 'Electronic Man', made with recycled plastic pieces of variuos electronic devices, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Piet Hein Eek poses next to his creation 'Electronic Man', made with recycled plastic pieces of variuos electronic devices, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Sunday, April 14, 2019, designer Lucio Micheletti poses next to his creation 'Victory', made with maple wood and recycled plastic from bottles and containers, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Sunday, April 14, 2019, designer Lucio Micheletti poses next to his creation 'Victory', made with maple wood and recycled plastic from bottles and containers, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

Gallerist Rossana Orlandi has curated an exhibition titled "RO Plastic — Master's Pieces" of original objects crafted from plastic trash by such luminaries as Australian designer Brodie Neill, Italian Piero Lissoni and Dutch designer Piet Hein Eek.

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Italian gallerist Rossella Orlandi sits on Spanish designer Nacho Carbonell's chair 'Re-evolution', made with recycled plastic from packaging for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Italian gallerist Rossella Orlandi sits on Spanish designer Nacho Carbonell's chair 'Re-evolution', made with recycled plastic from packaging for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

The goal is to bring attention to the potential to transform and repurpose recycled plastic, some reclaimed directly from the sea.

Patricia Urquiola, a Spanish designer based in Milan, made a "Wasting Time Daybed," from upcycled plastic. The base of the daybed is created from an agglomerate of colorful recycled PET plastic. Its body, backrest and arms are made from recycled drinking bottles and the piece is covered with blue and gray post-consumer textiles.

Urquiola said she wants to help upcycling grow into a sustainable system "in a playful but also provoking way."

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Fabio Novembre poses sitting on his 'Jolly Roger' chair, made with upcycled plastics, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Fabio Novembre poses sitting on his 'Jolly Roger' chair, made with upcycled plastics, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

"There is no such thing as waste, because time only knows reinvention," she said.

In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, from left, designers Piero and Francesco Lissoni pose next to their creation set consisting of a set of bowl, a vase and a lamp, made with upcycled plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, from left, designers Piero and Francesco Lissoni pose next to their creation set consisting of a set of bowl, a vase and a lamp, made with upcycled plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

 In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Australian designer Brodie Neill poses next to his creation '"Capsule: Ocean Plastic Hourglass", on a table made with his self-created Ocean Terrazzo material, made with plastic waste from oceans, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Australian designer Brodie Neill poses next to his creation '"Capsule: Ocean Plastic Hourglass", on a table made with his self-created Ocean Terrazzo material, made with plastic waste from oceans, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, Spanish designer Fernando Mastrangelo poses sitting on his creation 'Tombstone Chair', at the National Museum of Science and Technology, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, Spanish designer Fernando Mastrangelo poses sitting on his creation 'Tombstone Chair', at the National Museum of Science and Technology, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

 In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, Italian photographer Maurizio Galimberti, poses next to his creation made with Polaroid unused cartridges, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 12, 2019, Italian photographer Maurizio Galimberti, poses next to his creation made with Polaroid unused cartridges, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

 In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Tiziano Vudafieri poses under to his creation 'The Wilhem Lamp', made of recycled polycaronate, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Tiziano Vudafieri poses under to his creation 'The Wilhem Lamp', made of recycled polycaronate, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

 In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Design artistic director Barnaba Fornasetti poses in front of a paravent folding screen 'Fornasettiana Remix', made with regenerated polystyrene, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, Design artistic director Barnaba Fornasetti poses in front of a paravent folding screen 'Fornasettiana Remix', made with regenerated polystyrene, for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, designer Patricia Urquiola relaxes sitting on her creation 'Wasting Time Daybed' made from upcycled plastic for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, designer Patricia Urquiola relaxes sitting on her creation 'Wasting Time Daybed' made from upcycled plastic for the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

 In this picture taken on Friday, April 19, 2019, Italian designer Massimiliano Locatelli lies on a sunbed made with upcycled plastic bottles, called 'Anonymous Design Beach lounger', for the the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Friday, April 19, 2019, Italian designer Massimiliano Locatelli lies on a sunbed made with upcycled plastic bottles, called 'Anonymous Design Beach lounger', for the the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of Milan's Furniture Fair, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

 In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Matteo Cibic poses next to his creation ''Cabinet -oh', made with recycled packaging plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Saturday, April 13, 2019, Italian designer Matteo Cibic poses next to his creation ''Cabinet -oh', made with recycled packaging plastic, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

 In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Piet Hein Eek poses next to his creation 'Electronic Man', made with recycled plastic pieces of variuos electronic devices, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Thursday, April 11, 2019, designer Piet Hein Eek poses next to his creation 'Electronic Man', made with recycled plastic pieces of variuos electronic devices, during the 'RO Master's Pieces exhibition', on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)
In this picture taken on Sunday, April 14, 2019, designer Lucio Micheletti poses next to his creation 'Victory', made with maple wood and recycled plastic from bottles and containers, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

In this picture taken on Sunday, April 14, 2019, designer Lucio Micheletti poses next to his creation 'Victory', made with maple wood and recycled plastic from bottles and containers, at the National Museum of Science and Technology, during the "RO Plastic - Master's Pieces" exhibition, on the sidelines of the Salone del Mobile International Furniture Fair week, in Milan, Italy. Scientists and environmental activists have been long raised the alarm on plastic pollution. Now, the high-end design world is getting in on the growing global effort to tackle plastic pollution -- by upcycling discarded objects into desirable one-off design pieces. (AP PhotoLuca Bruno)

PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron warned Thursday that Europe could “die” if it fails to build its own robust defense as Russia’s war in Ukraine rages on, or if it fails to undertake major trade and economic reforms to compete with China and the U.S.

Macron urged Europeans to become more ambitious in a fast-changing world to face the challenges of war, fierce trade competition, energy scarcity, climate change and increasing authoritarianism.

In a nearly two-hour speech at Sorbonne University in Paris, Macron said that the continent is divided and “too slow and lacks ambition” at a time when the 27-member European Union needs to become a superpower, defend its own borders and speak with one voice if it wants to survive and thrive.

“Our Europe today is mortal,” Macron said. “It can die and that depends solely on our choices,” he added. He called on people to make those choices now because, “it’s today that Europe is between war and peace.”

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, now in its third year, is an existential threat and Europe isn't armed enough to defend itself when “confronted by a power like Russia that has no inhibitions, no limits,” Macron said.

‘Our ability to ensure our security is at stake," Macron said. “Russia mustn’t be allowed to win.”

Europe now has the “good fortune” of having the Biden administration’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, Macron said. But, in a year of key elections around Europe, in the U.S. and elsewhere, support may fragment or disappear entirely, he added.

“Europe must become capable of defending its interests, with its allies by our side whenever they are willing, and alone if necessary,” Macron said.

Strong armies, a European rapid intervention program and force, tanks, a missile shield and other weapons, produced in Europe, will need the support of “a joint diplomatic force that will speak with one voice and build bridges with Africa and Latin America,” the French leader said.

“Only then will Europe show that it's not a United States’ lap dog, and that it also knows how to talk to other regions of the world,” he said.

France has been a firm supporter of Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, and Macron has often clashed with other Western leaders as he has insisted that Europe must stand by the country at any cost. The French president alarmed European leaders by saying recently that sending Western troops into Ukraine to shore up its defenses shouldn’t be ruled out.

Referring to trade practices of China and the U.S., Macron said “the two world powers have decided not to respect the rules of global trade” by shoring up protections and subsides while Europe’s industry remains open and is stuck in overregulation.

“Let’s do the same, we are in competition,” Macron said.

“We must buy faster, we must produce more and we must buy more that is made in Europe. That is key,” Macron said.

Thursday's speech came less than two months before a pivotal European Parliament election.

Macron, an avid advocate of a united and assertive Europe, also rallied support for his centrist Renaissance party before the June 6-9 vote as far-right parties lead the moderate coalitions in the polls. He called for safeguarding democratic values as the “authoritarian model” was becoming “more popular” across the continent.

The war in Ukraine and immigration are top priorities for European Union voters, according to polls. Far-right parties have gained support by criticizing Macron’s government policies on both issues. Macron acknowledged divisions on immigration policies, including on asylum and deportation rules for those who have arrived to Europe illegally.

He emphasized the need for an effective response and Europe-wide coordination for curbing illegal immigration, closer cooperation with immigrants' countries of origin and a unified, relentless fight against human traffickers.

Macron criticized the idea of striking an agreement, as Britain as done, with countries in Africa and elsewhere to transfer immigrants there.

“This is a betrayal of our values that ultimately leads us to dependency on other counties,” Macron said.

The British government earlier this week approved a law allowing the deportation of some migrants who enter the country illegally to Rwanda.

Macron lost his majority in France’s most influential house of parliament, the National Assembly, after the 2022 election to the far-left coalition and the far-right National Rally party.

The social situation in France remains tense as Paris prepares to host the Olympic Games this summer, amid protests from teachers and police officers, and farmer demonstrations in recent weeks. The protests follow huge rallies last year against Macron’s ultimately successful proposal to increase the retirement age from 62 to 64.

Barbara Surk reported from Nice, France. Lorne Cook contributed to this report from Brussels.

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron arrives to deliver a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron arrives to deliver a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech on Europe in the amphitheater of the Sorbonne University, Thursday, April 25 in Paris. 2024. French President Emmanuel Macron will outline his vision for Europe as a more assertive global power at the backdrop of war in Ukraine, security, and economic challenges in a speech ahead of pivotal election for the European Parliament in June. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP)

 French President Emmanuel Macron speaks during a media conference at an EU summit in Brussels, Thursday, April 18, 2024. European Union leaders on Wednesday debated a new "European Competitiveness Deal" aimed at helping the 27-nation bloc close the gap with Chinese and American rivals amid fears the region's industries will otherwise be left behind for good. (AP Photo/Omar Havana)

French President Emmanuel Macron speaks during a media conference at an EU summit in Brussels, Thursday, April 18, 2024. European Union leaders on Wednesday debated a new "European Competitiveness Deal" aimed at helping the 27-nation bloc close the gap with Chinese and American rivals amid fears the region's industries will otherwise be left behind for good. (AP Photo/Omar Havana)
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