Public policy
Providing evidence to support policy-making processes
The University of Plymouth has a prestigious record of engaging with and influencing policy, from legislation on microplastics, to innovation in offshore renewable energy and improving the health of coastal communities.
We work with local, regional, national and international partners across a range of complex policy issues including soil erosion, anti-microbial resistance and digital interventions for people with Parkinson’s disease. Our academics regularly brief Parliamentary Select Committees and All-Party Parliamentary Groups, engage with Government officials, and provide evidence for Government policy consultations and 'POSTnotes' issued to Parliamentarians by the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology. Policy engagement also occurs through academic membership of National and Regional bodies, such as the Microbiology Society Council and the Integrated Care Board for Devon.
To find out more about public policy engagement at the University of Plymouth, please contact
Dr Rosie Langridge
Following the success of our workshops last year, we are now running four workshops relating to policy engagement and confidence in building your policy network.
Find out more and book your place (UoP log-in required)
Spotlight on policy impact
International Marine Litter Research Unit
Since the first publication on microplastics in 2004, our academics have dedicated much of the last two decades to understanding the global distribution, abundance and environmental impacts of marine plastic pollution.
Their research has influenced policy worldwide, informing the new UN Global Plastics Pollution Treaty. The International Marine Litter Unit (IMLRU) team are now working to provide the evidence to drive a solutions-oriented approach to this global crisis, starting with the design stage of plastics.
Engaging with Policy: information for academic researchers
Our policy engagement toolkit provides academics with information on the policy environment and how policy making works. Providing knowledge and evidence to policy makers can help to change policy and impact substantially on society. Engaging with evidence-based policy making can also help to enhance your research profile to strengthen grant applications.
Public policy news
University helps to lead calls for investment in coastal communities
New research confirms growing socio-economic challenges but highlights potential to drive national growth
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Researchers connect with policy makers and advisers at Evidence Week
The 2025 event showcased our expertise in climate education, marine light pollution and offshore aquaculture
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Academic nominated by UK Government to contribute to global biodiversity assessment of nature’s contributions to people
Dr Sian Rees is a lead author on an assessment identifying the most effective ways to monitor biodiversity, human health and wellbeing
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Scientists say we have enough evidence to agree global action on microplastics
A new study, published in the journal Science, comes 20 years after the University led the first research into microplastics in the ocean
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Strategic Research Institutes
Our diverse research spans three Strategic Institutes. Collaborative endeavour in rich, natural environments drives solutions to global challenges.
Marine Institute
Marine, maritime, education and innovation expertise integrates to train scientists, engineers, policymakers, artists, technicians and business.
Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research
Transformations in life course, ageing, methodologies, e-health, technology and interventions in health, social care, lifestyle, health and wellbeing.
Sustainable Earth Institute
Science, engineering, arts, humanities, health and business, with community, businesses and individuals, innovate to build resilience for our planet.