Policy impact
How the discovery of microplastics has influenced policy worldwide
The International Marine Litter Research Unit (IMLRU) first published a paper on microplastics in 2004. For almost two decades, the unit's research on the environmental impact of plastics in the ocean has taken the discoveries from the deepest oceans to the highest mountain peaks.
The team are now focussed on driving a solutions-based approach to marine litter, starting with the design stage of plastics. Their work continues to influence both national and international policy, most recently with terrestrial borne litter in the marine environment. Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), October 2021.
Leading UK marine scientists welcome the move towards a global plastics pact
"It is essential that we change our ways and use plastics far more responsibly than we have in the past; that is the only way to realise the potential environmental benefits that plastic can bring without the rapidly accelerating levels of harm that we currently see."
Evidence informed solutions
2023 - Academic contributes to report highlighting plastic’s threat to human and planetary health
2023 - University leads call for new legally-binding treaty to protect Earth's orbit
2022 - Informed Parliamentary discussions on fitting microfibre filters in washing machines
Publications to inform policy
Research accolades
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United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) accreditation granted to The University (2023)
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Volvo Environment Prize for raising societal awareness of global ocean microplastics (2022)
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Queen’s Anniversary Prize for world-leading microplastics discovery research (2019)
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University scientists recognised in Natural Environment Research Council Impact Awards (2018)
Research Excellence Framework 2021
The University of Plymouth achieved excellent results in the REF 2021 submissions. The ground-breaking work of the International Marine Litter Research Unit (IMLRU) has become the epitome of impact-led, socially engaged research. The team has been pioneering in their work to identify the issue of microplastics and marine litter, reveal its true global scale, and influence policy in key areas to tackle it.
International Marine Litter Research news
- Scientists continue work to establish the fate and impact of tyre wear particles in the environment 20 September 2023
- Rivers contain hidden sinks and sources of microplastics 20 September 2023
- Academic participates in international programme for early career scientists 14 September 2023
- Project focuses on decarbonisation of the fashion and textile industry 14 August 2023
- Microplastics and maritime cyber expertise showcased in Parliament 13 July 2023
