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Microplastic Pollution in focus at the MICRO 2024 Conference
25 September 2024
PML senior scientists and students among those presenting and chairing.
A team of nine scientists from PML are sharing their latest research on marine plastic pollution at the MICRO 2024 conference, which is taking place from September 23-27 in Lanzarote (Canary Islands, Spain).
The prestigious event brings together global experts to work towards addressing the critical issue of plastic pollution and its far-reaching impacts on the environment and health.
The 5th Edition of the International Conference, MICRO 2024 is being held in person for five intensive days, reconvening a growing community of plastics-focused researchers and policymakers.
The event is focused on the entire spectrum of plastic pollution, from macro to nano-level effects, with a core emphasis on microplastics, and is aimed at:
- Facilitating open access to emerging and ongoing research
- Identifying current research frontiers and new challenges
- Contributing to the expansion of the collaborative research community
PML’s delegation to MICRO 2024 is playing a significant role in the conference, with its team of distinguished researchers presenting and chairing sessions throughout the week.
From the ingestion of microplastics by zooplankton to the impacts of plastic contamination of coral reefs and other areas of research, the team is contributing their valuable insights and latest findings to the global dialogue on plastic pollution, reinforcing PML’s commitment to addressing one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time.
PML participants include:
Emma Hunter (co-supervised by Professor Penelope Lindeque)
For the three PML of the team – Christine Pascoe and students, Natalie Smith and Charlotte Woodhouse – the event also marks their first ever conference talks, and all of the students have been involved in co-chairing sessions.
Professor Penelope Lindeque said: “Our participation in MICRO 2024 underscores PML’s dedication to advancing our understanding of plastic pollution and its impacts on marine ecosystems. We’re enjoying engaging with fellow researchers and working collaboratively towards effective solutions to this global challenge. It’s particularly exciting to be sharing novel data at this conference that we’re looking forward to publishing in the coming year. The evolution of the science over the last decade has been remarkable – we now understand much more about the sources, distribution, and impact of plastic pollution, with an increasing focus on solutions and safer alternatives. Of particular relevance is how our science is underpinning evidence for the global plastics treaty prior to INC-5 in November.”
Dr. Matthew Cole: “It’s incredible to reflect on the fact that it’s been 10 years since the MICRO conference series began, and PML has maintained a presence at every meeting since its inception. It’s truly inspiring to see our students now carrying the torch, continuing this vital research and sharing their findings. The progression of research in this field has been phenomenal. We’ve moved from initial observations to a much deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding plastic pollution in marine environments. Our continued involvement in MICRO showcases PML’s commitment to being at the forefront of this critical area of research.”
About MICRO 2024
MICRO 2024 is the 5th Edition of the International Conference series focusing on plastic pollution from macro to nano scales. The conference brings together researchers, policymakers, and experts from around the world to share knowledge, identify challenges, and develop solutions to address the growing issue of plastic pollution in our environment. MICRO 2024: Plastic Pollution from macro to nano.