Plastic pollution experts are making waves

Exeter Science Park has welcomed the latest business to its flourishing community - Common Seas, an organisation focused on stopping the flow of plastic pollution into the ocean.

Common Seas is an international team of policy experts, researchers, teachers, and communicators who all share a deep connection to the sea. The company has relocated its headquarters to the Science Park, as it drives systemic change, creating partnerships to design and deliver resources and solutions that stop the flow of plastic pollution.

Managing Director, Dr Charlotte Davies said: “Over the past 20 years, global plastic production has doubled to 460 million tonnes per year. A tiny proportion – a mere 9% – is recycled with the remainder being burnt, put in landfills, or going into the ocean.

“Common Seas is a small organisation working with the countries who are most affected by plastic, particularly Small Island Developing States and developing coastal economies, helping them create a just transition to a future freed from plastic pollution. This will be the focus of our work at Exeter Science Park.

“Our move to the Science Park is about proximity to the coast and accessibility for our London-based colleagues, and we have already hosted a successful team day. We’re also looking forward to being part of a community with a similar focus and sharing ideas and innovations.”

Jason Buck, Senior Business Development Manager at Exeter Science Park, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Common Seas team to the Science Park. As our community has grown it has been fantastic to see businesses and organisations collaborating, and I’m sure this will be the case for Common Seas as they work to tackle the very serious problem of plastic pollution in our oceans.”