Angelica Aguirre Sanchez, postgraduate researcher, CDT SuMMeR: Cohort 3

Hosting Institute: University of Exeter

Associate Partners: Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture (CEFAS) , Materiom

After completing my undergraduate degree in Marine Biology I worked with local NGOs developing the census protocols for marine mammals and birds in MPAs in Peru. I also worked in the ecotoxicology laboratory at the Marine Institute of Peru-IMARPE and joined the Pacific Plastics Science to Solutions (PPSS) project to develop my research thesis on microplastics. Last year, I won funding from the Peruvian Ministry of the Environment to research on microplastics in southern Peru.

I had the opportunity to work with local fisheries, as well as governmental and non-governmental organisations, while researching the incidence of microplastic in hydrobiological species in Natural Protected Areas along the coast of Peru. Through this I have learned that a holistic approach is essential for achieving successful sustainable management. For this reason, my interests span marine pollution, ecology, local fisheries, policy and the circular economy. Adopting a transdisciplinary approach is crucial for informed decision-making and addressing this ubiquitous pollutant.

My project seeks to understand the following research questions:

1. What is the behaviour and fate of biopolymers in natural marine waters?

2. What are the effects on seawater carbonate chemistry of endogenous chemicals and the release of carbon from biomass?

3. Do these materials enter the marine food web and what are their direct and indirect effects on individuals and ecosystems?

4. What are the systemic effects of 3G bioplastics?

To address these questions, throughout my PhD, I will take a holistic approach including system modelling, chemical analysis, exposure studies and fieldwork to explore the effects of next generation biopolymers on marine ecology and seawater chemistry. It will also involve the use of system dynamics technique to evaluate the ecosocial and ecological effects of the introduction of these materials.

Assessing the socio-economic and ecological effects of next-generation biopolymers as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastic requires an interdisciplinary approach. For this reason, the CDT SuMMeR programme is an excellent choice. Its multi-, inter- and trans- disciplinary approach it will provide me the essential skills to succeed throughout my academic and professional career. Additionally, CDT SuMMeR’s strong partnership with various organisations enhances the aspirations of early-career researchers. Moreover, its extensive network of researchers from other cohorts and professors will inspire and motivate me to collaborate with diverse stakeholders in the pursuit of sustainable marine management.