Microplastics and the sewage scandal in England – from the rivers of Manchester to the House of Lords

Research in the rivers of Manchester set out to establish the extent of the microplastic contamination problem and to better understand the processes involved in the entry, storage, and transport of microplastic particles and the ecological threat they posed. We found the presence of microplastics on river channel beds in high concentrations is a clear sign that wastewater treatment is not taking place as it should. The geography of microplastic contamination can shed light on illegal wastewater practices. 

This work played a role in highlighting the sewage dumping scandal that began to engulf the private water companies in England from the middle of 2021. This talk sets out how these findings have influenced debate and policy debate at Westminster. I will also mention some of the strategies used by the water companies to undermine the science and spread disinformation to maintain the status quo. A well evidenced geographical perspective is fundamental to understanding and tackling the riverine microplastic problem. 

The UNESCO Centre for Water Law, Policy & Science will host this event. 

Location: TBC and online 

Please contact [email protected] if you wish to join online.