On 26 May, the topic will be discussed with master's students at an event at Leuphana University Lüneburg.
 

The causes and possible solutions for dealing with microplastics will be discussed at the event in Lüneburg with students from various disciplines such as law, business administration and environmental sciences. This was announced by the Association of Plastics Manufacturers Plastics Europe Deutschland (PED). "The students are interested in the industry's perspective and are looking for dialogue. They want to develop their own solutions and put them into practice,‘ explains Prof. Michael Braungart, co-founder of the Cradle to Cradle concept and head of the seminar ’Rethinking Microplastics". To do this, students needed creative drive, but also an awareness of the problem and insight into how things work in practice. ‘The challenges begin with the definition of microplastics and understanding exactly what they are,’ emphasises Braungart.
 
‘To prevent plastics from entering the environment, we need smart and forward-looking solutions that start already during product design,’ says Bettina Dempewolf, Head of Communications at PED. ‘Today's students are tomorrow's scientists, decision-makers and managers.’ It was therefore right and important that they gain a comprehensive picture of the challenges, reflect on different perspectives and proactively contribute to the solution process. Dempewolf will illustrate how microplastics are created in industrial processes, for example through the loss of plastic granulate during production or transport. She will also inform participants about the measures the industry is taking to reduce such emissions, for example through industry initiatives such as ‘Operation Clean Sweep.’ From the plastics industry's point of view, better waste management at a global level is also crucial to ensure that plastic waste becomes a new resource rather than an environmental problem. A short keynote speech by Dr Christine Bunte is planned on this topic. The CEO of PED will in this context present the association's proposals for the global plastics agreement.
 
Sources:

• Press release PED (20.5.2025)
• Photo: © Sören Funk / Unsplash