Plastic pollution is recognised as a global problem, but little is known about the distribution and sources of plastic in the Polar Regions, particularly around Antarctica.

The Plastic-AG aims to: examine the presence, origin and biological effects of macro-, micro- and nanoplastics; quantify the scale of the problem; and propose solutions for minimising the environmental risk and impacts on Polar ecosystems.

We will address the following key scientific questions:

• What is the occurrence and distribution of plastics (nano, micro and macro) in Polar environments?
• What are the sources and fates of plastic in the Polar Regions?
• What are the impacts on Polar ecosystems?
• What are the potential remediation/mitigation solutions in the Polar Regions?