Plastic Pollution Delusions: Divesting From Polluters and False Solutions Webinar

Join the Aotearoa Plastic Pollution Alliance and Mindful Money for a webinar kōrero about why some so-called ‘solutions’ to plastic pollution are really just part of the problem, and what we should be supporting instead.

With Plastic Free July having come and gone, and the sixth (and hopefully final) Global Plastics Treaty negotiation upon us, plastic pollution has been in the spotlight. And rightfully so: plastic pollution is present in all areas of the Earth; from floating in the moana to washing up on our beaches; inside the stomachs of seabirds; in our soils; our kai and our bodies.

We need urgent actions and solutions, but how do we ensure that the solutions, companies and kaupapa we choose to support aren’t making matters worse?

Following on from Break Free From Plastic’s False Solutions campaign during Plastic Free July, this online webinar will consist of short presentations from expert panelists, raising awareness of these false solutions.

Mindful Money will also discuss their findings in a new research report on ocean pollution, with time for kōrero and pātai/Q&A.

Webinar Panelists:

Lydia Chai

As both a lawyer and activist, Lydia is driving real change, including leading a powerful petition to Parliament to stop plastic waste exports to developing countries. Her compelling 10-minute talk will reveal the hidden world of the global waste trade.

Sue Coutts

Sue is a zero-waste legend in Aotearoa, working tirelessly over many years on increasing awareness, engagement, and support of community-led zero waste initiatives and policies. Sue will be speaking on waste incineration as a false solution to mitigating plastic waste.

Dr. Helena Ruffell

Dr Helena is an Environmental scientist who researched microplastic pollution sources to the environment, focusing on municipal wastewater, solids, and composts. Drawing from her research, she'll expose biodegradable plastics as a false solution.

Sophie Auckram

As the Research Analyst at Mindful Money Sophie undertakes environmental research and promotes ethical investment practices through Mindful Money's exclusion list. She will discuss the upcoming Mindful Money report: 'Let Our Oceans Breathe: How Investors Can Support Ocean Health', and the most harmful plastic polluters identified in the report.