Sustainable Manufacturing and Environmental Pollution Programme

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Understanding visible light and microbe-driven degradation mechanisms of polyurethane plastics

Understanding visible light and microbe-driven degradation mechanisms of polyurethane plastics Pathways, property changes, and product analysis Developed under the SMEP-funded GIVO-Warwick project, lead by the University of Warwick, the below study investigates the role of microorganisms in the degradation of plastics. The accumulation of polyurethane plastics (PU-PS) in the environment is on the rise, posing […]

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Biodegradation of microplastics derived from controlled release fertiliser coating

Biodegradation of microplastics derived from controlled release fertiliser coating Selective microbial colonisation and metabolism in plastisphere Developed under the SMEP-funded GIVO-Warwick project, lead by the University of Warwick, the below study assesses the degradation process of controlled-release fertiliser (CRF) derived microplastics in soil.  Coated controlled-release fertilisers are widely used in agriculture, and the persistent presence

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The operating performance of Modified Basalt Fibres bio-nest reactor exposed to nano-plastics

The operating performance of Modified Basalt Fibres (MBF) bio-nest reactor exposed to nano-plastics Developed under the SMEP-funded GIVO-Warwick project, lead by the University of Warwick, the below study is the first of its kind assessing Modified Basalt Fibre (MBF) bio-nests treating wastewater with exposure to nano plastic. Biological nests made of MBF serve as effective

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Lost at Sea: Combating Abandoned, Lost, and Otherwise Discarded Fishing Gear

Plastic pollution has a severe impact on oceans and marine life. This report, produced by the World Bank’s PROBLUE Programme, summarises actions that can be taken to manage abandoned, lost and otherwise discarded fishing gear, and features the SMEP grantee, Catchgreen, as a case study for biodegradable fishing gear.

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Poisoned power: Why lead-acid batteries need a cleaner and greener alternative

Invented more than 160 years ago, lead-acid batteries, which are reliable and cheap, are still the most widely used rechargeable batteries despite containing toxic lead. The UNCTAD Weekly Tradecast looks at lead-acid batteries and why they remain so popular despite the world moving towards greener energy with UN Trade and Development’s (UNCTAD) Henrique Pacini.

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