Dr Christina Shaw

Who is polluting the ocean with plastic?

Sam, Professor Eric van Sabeel, Regina, Dr Christina Shaw, Professor John McGeehan

Facing severe economic and ecological threats from mismanaged global plastic waste, Small Island Developing States are spearheading a multi-pronged response combining strict national bans, community-based beach cleanups, and the development of plastic-digesting enzymes. While current recycling limitations and a lack of local infrastructure hinder waste management, these efforts are supported by a 2022 UN resolution committed to establishing a legally binding global plastics treaty by 2024 to regulate the entire lifecycle of plastic production and disposal.