Plastic pollution is a key environmental issue across the world. Apart from being a societal nuisance, its persistence in the environment results in the formation of smaller particles, i.e. micro-and nanoplastics, which have been reported to be dangerous to both the environment and human health. Currently, research on plastic pollution is dominated by geographical hubs outside Africa, with a few countries within Africa contributing to the discourse (for example South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, and Kenya). Five African countries (i.e. Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria and South Africa) have been listed among the top 20 countries estimated to contribute the most to marine plastic pollution. Additionally, research suggests plastic pollution in Africa is expected to worsen as a result of population growth, rapid urbanisation, and the shift to a more plastic driven society.

The main aim of the PAN-microplast Network is to promote collaboration and knowledge exchange across Africa within the field of plastic pollution. The PAN-microplast community will be a place to celebrate and share research that showcases the African perspective. Plastic pollution is a complex and challenging problem, we, therefore, welcome a wide range of scholars that cross sectors and disciplines, and who are open to seeking unorthodox pathways to action.

Chelsea Rochman (Ph.D.)

Policy Guidelines on Plastic Pollution and Regulation of Single-use Plastics – Canadian Experience

Emmanuel O. Akindele (Ph.D.)

Decades of Microplastic Research in Africa – Prospects and Challenges

Adisa Ujo

Effort Towards Plastic Pollution Control in Africa