University teams up with eXXpedition to tackle the plastics in our oceans

eXXpedition’s Round the World 2019–2021 voyage will journey to some of the most important and diverse marine environments on the planet

Mr Alan Williams
Media & Communications Officer
21 May 2019

The University of Plymouth and pioneering sailing and science organisation eXXpedition are joining forces to conduct new and innovative research into the impact plastic pollution is having on our oceans.

They will work together to coordinate and conduct scientific experiments as part of eXXpedition’s Round the World 2019–2021 voyage, which will involve 300 women sailing more than 38,000 nautical miles over the space of two years.

Setting off from Plymouth in October 2019, it will journey to some of the most important and diverse marine environments on the planet, collecting samples to build a comprehensive picture of the state of our seas.

There will also be a wider citizen science and outreach programme, encouraging people all over the world to contribute towards a greater understanding of this global issue.

The initial three-year partnership is being made possible through funding from eXXpedition to the University’s International Marine Litter Research Unit.

It, in turn, is currently recruiting for a Science Lead who will set the agenda for the voyage’s scientific activities provide dedicated training for members of its crew and oversee the analysis of its results.

Find out more about the University of Plymouth’s International Marine Litter Research Unit here