Plastics, ranging from tiny, decades-old molecules to large piles of waste, have infiltrated every aspect of human and environmental systems worldwide.
Despite current scientific understanding, several challenges remain for researchers and policymakers alike to implement effective strategies for reducing the consequences of plastic pollution in our communities.
This fall and spring, the URI Plastics initiative is hosting, “Empowering Plastics Solutions,” a series of discussions aimed at sharing information and novel approaches, as well as identifying potential collaborations, among faculty, students, and community and industry partners.
During these talks, experts and URI community members will explore:
- Learning from the Past: Discover how insights from history can guide us toward equitable solutions for tackling plastic pollution in the future.
- Community-Centric Solutions: Explore ways to create fair and effective responses to plastic pollution challenges in various communities.
- Ecosystem Insights: Gain an understanding of the life cycle of plastics in different ecosystems and how we can reduce their impact.
- Circular Solutions: Find out about exciting new approaches to plastic production and management, all within the framework of a circular economy.
Watch! Rebecca Altman launches URI Plastics Seminar Series: “Empowering Plastic Solutions” - Nineteenth-century industrial plastics, though derived from natural sources like cellulose or latex, foreshadowed contemporary concerns, posing significant implications for human health, human rights, and the environment. Join writer and sociologist Dr. Rebecca Altman for this important discussion. Learn more!
Watch! Circular bioeconomy, Advanced Recycling & Composting: “Empowering Plastics Solutions” talk with Novamont - As one of the world’s leading companies in the bioplastics sector, Novamont provides information on different types of bioplastics, how they are manufactured and which applications they are currently being used. The team will share end of life solutions for some of these materials such as industrial composting and their role in helping to divert municipal food waste from landfill to composting and how this can help alleviate global warming and increase soil health. Plus, learn about new developments on advanced recycling and what happens if they are leaked into the environment. Learn more!
Marine Debris with Purpose: “Empowering Plastics Solutions” talk with Laura Ludwig - Thursday, March 7, 2024, 5:30-7 pm. Laura Ludwig, at Center for Coastal Studies, will share on on the impacts, removal, and repurposing of plastic marine debris including fishing gear, consumer debris, and storm-created infrastructure debris, and will share some innovative partnerships with artists who leverage the materials to create beautiful works of art to bring about awareness. Learn more!
Threads of Change: Solutions to Microfiber Pollution, “Empowering Plastics Solutions” discussion - March 22, 2024 at 2PM. Join URI and 5 Gyres Institute on World Water Day (March 22) for a virtual panel discussion with leading experts to discuss innovation solutions. Learn more!
Additional information will be forthcoming as details for each seminar are finalized. Questions? Contact Kathleen Shannon, Assistant to the VPR for Strategic Initiatives, at kshannon11@uri.edu.