A Sea of Plastic: Social-Structural Drivers of Marine Plastic Pollution in Europe
Short description
Plastic pollution is a serious sustainability problem affecting numerous ecosystems, including oceans. Understanding the social dimensions of increasing plastic pollution is an urgent need. Yet, sociological research on plastic pollution is extremely limited. This research will provide much needed insights on social-structural processes that act as underlying drivers of growing plastics pollution in marine systems.
The overarching question in this research project is: Why has plastic pollution in marine systems increased significantly during the era of sustainable development? Drawing on environmental sociology frameworks, the research project will examine political-economic, production-side dynamics and priorities— such as commodification processes— that have considerably shaped industry actions and responses to concerns about mounting plastic waste in the oceans. As such, the research will reveal significant social-structural level processes associated with plastic pollution and governance in Europe, which can open potential for better addressing a serious environmental concern.
Participating researchers
Stefano Longo, Senior Lecturer, University of Gothenburg
Richard York, Professor, University of Oregon