CSIR female researchers to brief media on groundbreaking technologies aimed at combating plastic pollution
Plastic pollution is an issue of global concern, while evidence-based solutions are in short supply. In response to this pressing problem, female scientists at the CSIR will host a hybrid media briefing on Tuesday, 13 August 2024, to share research and innovation aimed at addressing plastics-related concerns across the entire life cycle of plastic products.
Plastic pollution is an issue of global concern, while evidence-based solutions are in short supply. In response to this pressing problem, female scientists at the CSIR will host a hybrid media briefing on Tuesday, 13 August 2024, to share research and innovation aimed at addressing plastics-related concerns across the entire life cycle of plastic products. These researchers are at the forefront of the development and application of novel solutions, tools and technologies to reduce the demand for conventional plastics; their work aims to reduce reliance on traditional plastics and promote sustainable plastic circularity.
The hybrid media briefing will feature an array of technologies developed by the CSIR to drive practical solutions aimed at addressing plastic pollution and driving plastic sustainability. Principal researcher, Prof. Suzan Oelofse will present the Pathways Tool for plastic sustainability, an evidence-based strategy designed to mitigate plastic pollution in South Africa. Researchers, Dr Taahira Goga, will offer a detailed analysis of the lifecycle-based evaluation of South Africa’s plastics sector, focusing on creating a circular and low-carbon economy; and Dr Maya Mathew (John), will showcase her work on biodegradable plastic prototypes, aiming to provide eco-friendly alternatives to conventional plastics.
Dr Maya Mathew (John) will exhibit the following products developed using plastic waste; Plant fibre reinforced composite panels for transport sector, bagasse-biopolymer cutlery products, Compostable mulch films for agricultural sector, Compostable single-use biomedical devices (diagnostic kits, surgical aprons, angle connectors for oxygen masks),3D printed prototypes from cellulose and biopolymer and 3D printed compostable coffee pods.
Media is invited to the media briefing as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 13 August 2024
Time: 09:00 – 11:00
Link to briefing: https://youtube.com/live/a-zl7Um4eiM?feature=share
Teams Link: https://bit.ly/3yBVVfG
Venue: CSIR Pretoria Campus – Building 20, Baobab Boardroom (Meiring Naudé Road, Brummeria, Pretoria, South Africa)
RSVP to Phetolo Phatsibi, Media Relations Practitioner at PPhatsibi@csir.co.za/0813968871 by Wednesday 12 August 2024.
Enquiries:
Kulani Chauke, Acting CSIR Media Relations Manager
Mobile: 071 266 0019
Email: KChauke@csir.co.za