Support for effective UK plastics governance

The Global Plastics Policy Centre is a trusted, independent source of evidence and advice on plastics governance in the UK, with a strong track record of shaping national debates and informing UK policy priorities across government, academia, industry and civil society. As a UK-based institution, we work at the intersection of national and international policy, supporting the UK’s transition to a circular economy and net zero through objective, evidence-based and applied research and guidance.

We collaborate closely with key national bodies including the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the Environment Agency, and other government departments. Our team has directly supported the UK delegation in the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, including through our work with the Intersessional Working Group. Our reputation for rigour and neutrality helps ensure our insights are seen as reliable and actionable for informing policy decisions.

How we support UK plastics action and policy

We offer a range of services to help shape effective, forward-thinking plastics policy:

Evidence-based research

We generate robust, peer-reviewed research to inform UK action and policy on plastics, waste, reuse, recycling, and circularity.

Policy analysis and evaluation

We are systematically assessing the UK’s national plastics policy framework to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities for improvement. This work informs both domestic strategies around tackling plastic pollution and will support the government in understanding preparedness to meet the obligations of the Global Plastics Treaty.

Advisory and consultative services

Our experts provide impartial advice to government departments, agencies, and policy stakeholders across the UK. This includes expert reviews, advisory group participation, and strategic input into policy consultation processes.

Stakeholder engagement and workshops

We convene participatory workshops and policy dialogues that bring together policymakers, academics, civil society and industry leaders to co-develop solutions. Our strong networks ensure meaningful dialogue and cross-sector collaboration.

Evidence and insights for UK stakeholders and policymakers

We are committed to supporting stronger, more effective plastics governance in the UK. Our recent contributions include:

A Microplastics Policy Brief to guide the UK’s regulatory approach to addressing the impacts of microplastics.
Multiple Defra-funded research projects on plastics and waste policy, including:
Evidence and advisory support for the UK’s delegation in the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, including directly participating in the Intersessional Work.
Collaborative workshops with the Environment Agency and Defra to explore regulatory innovation in the UK.
Engagement with UK industry bodies to inform regulatory innovation and support business transition to circular models.
Act as expert witnesses in response to parliamentary enquiries in the Welsh Assembly and the UK House of Parliament.
High impact media coverage across national and international news outlets, blogs and podcasts, including coverage on microplastics policy by The Guardian and the adoption of reuse systems by BBC News. View all news stories from the Global Plastics Policy Centre.

Our expertise

Our research team has extensive experience in supporting plastics action and policy across the UK, including:

Policy input: Feeding into England’s emerging circular economy strategy and evaluating UK government support for international plastics initiatives.
Strategic agenda setting: Leading the development of a new national research and innovation agenda to address plastic pollution in the UK.
Editorial leadership: Serving as Editor-in-Chief of a leading UK-based journal focused on plastics and sustainability.
Citizen science: Supporting initiatives such as The Big Plastic Count, which involves the public in data collection and raises awareness.
Public engagement: Raising awareness and improving understanding of plastic pollution through national campaigns, citizen science initiatives, and media contributions.
Media influence: We are regularly called upon to contribute to engage with national media to advance public understanding of plastics governance.
Knowledge exchange: Hosting conferences and events that bring together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to share insights and drive action.

Work with us

We work across the plastics policy landscape; from shaping national strategies to providing technical input on specific interventions. Whether you’re developing legislation, designing policy pilots, or looking for evidence to inform regulatory decisions, our team can help.