Episode 1: Creative solutions for plastic pollution

In this episode

With almost 60% of all plastic ever produced still polluting our planet there are enormous issues posed by the massive volume of plastic waste present in our environment. However, by repurposing this massive stockpile of plastic waste into something more valuable we can turn this problem into a solution that benefits us all and paves the way for a brighter, cleaner future.

In this episode, in discussion with Dr Sam Blaxland, Dr Alvin Orbaek White, formerly an Associate Professor in Chemical Engineering in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, unveils the incredible power of plastic waste. As one of the world's foremost experts on nanoengineering, Dr Orbaek White discusses the ground-breaking potential of waste plastic, and how it can be transformed into valuable materials such as hydrogen gas and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). These powerful and versatile materials are the future of innovation, used in everything from cables and batteries to MRI scanners.

About our expert

Dr Alvin Orbaek White is formerly an Associate Professor in Chemical Engineering and former Welsh Government Sêr Cymru II Fellow at Swansea University. He is also an entrepreneur having recently started up his own company TrimTabs to commercialise the sustainable energy knowledge that he has discovered.

Dr Orbaek White is one of the world’s foremost experts in nanoengineering and has pioneered advanced technologies capable of transforming waste plastics into high-value sustainable materials. He is a passionate teacher and advocate for equal opportunities through participation as Board Member to the BAME Network in Swansea University.

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