Volvo Environment Prize seminars 2022

Small pieces of plastics are widely spread all over the world’s oceans and ingested by living creatures. Microplastics are found in zooplankton, fish, seabirds, whales, seals, and also in humans. Yet, the long-term effects of this plastic pollution threat are still largely unknown.

With the help of winds and ocean currents, microplastics have spread all over the planet. The laureates have reported them in the Arctic deep sea and the snow on Mount Everest in the Himalayas.

The definition of microplastics is that they are no more than 5 millimeters in size; some are significantly smaller and only visible under a microscope. The microplastics found, even in the world’s most remote areas, result from a break-down from litter from the 360 million tons of plastic produced annually, used for packaging, cosmetics, car tyres, and numerous other items. Now microplastics in the marine environment are spread in the food chains, and intensive research is underway on environmental effects and how to prevent the spread of plastic waste through legislation and changes in design, production and disposal.

The jury for the Volvo Environment Prize points out that the three scientists have conducted  extensive research collaboration “that has been instrumental in providing societal awareness of plastic pollution as an emerging global challenge and triggering policy actions.”

Come and hear them talk about their research and results.

No pre-registration is necessary, but the number of places is limited so come early if you want to secure your spot.  

You can also follow the seminar via Zoom, you will find the link here and in the information box further up.