Breakfast Briefing to explore the challenge of plastics recycling and showcase support for SMEs

By University of Birmingham
schedule7th Jun 19

The Challenge of Plastics Recycling Breakfast Briefing

18 June 2019, 07.30 - 10.00, Birmingham Research Park

The extent of plastic pollution is the subject of growing media attention with images of the threat it poses to wildlife and the natural environment resonating strongly with the public. Given the scale of the problem and public opinion on the issue, plastic recycling and the move towards zero plastic waste is becoming increasingly important for society and businesses alike.

The University of Birmingham Business Club will host a Breakfast Briefing on 18 June 2019 at Birmingham Research Park on the subject of plastic pollution, the challenges associated with effective plastics recycling, and innovation opportunities for businesses working in this space. Join us over complimentary breakfast for this free event where delegates will have the opportunity to hear from a range of speakers from both academic and industry backgrounds.

Professor Stefan Krause from the University of Birmingham will highlight research into plastic pollution undertaken through the 100 Plastic Rivers Project. The project aims to yield vital clues about how we might manage the plastic crisis by seeking to understand the environmental effect of plastics that are transported and transformed in rivers and accumulate in river sediments where they create a long-lasting pollution legacy.

Dr Sally Beken from the Knowledge Transfer Network will discuss the work of the UK Circular Plastics Network in light of the government’s 25-year environmental plan in which it commits to removing all ‘avoidable’ plastic waste by 2042, setting out the changes that may arise, innovations in the plastics economy, and opportunities for collaborations in order to innovate in this space.

The event will also showcase the support available to eligible businesses through the University of Birmingham’s business support programmes: Alternative Raw Materials with Low Impact (ARLI) and Accelerating Thermal Energy Technology Adoption (ATETA). Representatives from both projects will discuss the variety of support mechanisms offered to businesses working in the plastics and recycling industries, ranging from transforming waste streams into higher value goods, to identifying opportunities in new energy markets and technologies.

To sign up for this Breakfast Briefing, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-challenge-of-plastics-recycling-uob-business-club-breakfast-briefing-tickets-61800587220

About

The University of Birmingham Business Club is a network that gives businesses and academics the opportunity to meet and develop mutually beneficial collaborations. The Club's Breakfast Briefings are themed around business-relevant presentations and networking time. The event is free of charge with refreshments provided and the University's Business Engagement team on hand to answer any questions.