By Abdullahi Lukman
Leading scientists, policymakers, and industry experts are to converge on Adelaide on March 20-21 for the second Nano and Microplastics Australian Conference to discuss solutions to the growing environmental issue of plastic pollution.
Hosted by Flinders University’s Nano and Microplastic Research Consortium (NMRC), the conference is expected to build on last year’s inaugural event, which resulted in the creation of a call-to-action document highlighting the severe threats posed by nano and microplastics.
This year’s conference is expected to feature a larger industry presence and aims to foster stronger collaborations between academia, industry, and government.
Experts are to focus on advancing analytical methodologies, improving monitoring strategies, and supporting policy development.
A key part of the conference is expected to be the Agilent Workshop, which will explore breakthroughs in standardizing microplastics analysis, particularly through infrared spectroscopy and its role in shaping regulatory frameworks.
International experts such as Professor Bruno Grassl, Professor Stephanie Reynaud, and Professor Javier Jimenez-Lamana are to discuss the challenges and prevalence of nanoplastics in the environment.
Keynote speakers, including Professor Kevin Thomas and Dr. Marina Santana, are expected to share their insights on the impact of nano and microplastics on ecosystems and human health.
Researchers from Flinders University, including Elise Tuuri and Hayden Gillings, are to present their findings on ocean plastics and nanoplastics in marine organisms.
Panel discussions are expected to address regulatory and industry challenges, with participants such as Suzanne Toumbourou from the Australian Council of Recycling and Dr. Sam Gaylard from EPA SA discussing actions needed to work toward a plastic-free future.
Dr. Anastasiia Snigirova of NMRC emphasized that this year’s conference is to provide a crucial platform for collaboration and innovation, setting the stage for actionable solutions to reduce plastic pollution.
The conference is expected to also feature sponsors like Agilent Technologies and Bruker, who will showcase the latest technologies in microplastics analysis and regulatory development.
