Summer Lecture Series: Designing Plastic Out of the Ocean Economy feat. Abby Barrows

Description

Join us in person at Schoodic Institute or online via Zoom on Tuesday, July 21 at 7:00pm for Designing Plastic Out of the Ocean Economy, featuring Abby Barrows, Principal Investigator for the Global Microplastics Initiative with Adventure Scientists and marine scientist, researcher, and oyster farmer. After years documenting microplastic pollution worldwide, marine researcher Abigail Barrows turned her focus toward prevention. This talk traces the journey from measuring plastic contamination in marine ecosystems to redesigning aquaculture systems that eliminate plastic gear entirely. Featuring field-tested innovations from Maine oyster farms, the presentation explores how practical design changes can reduce pollution, protect marine life, and create more resilient coastal economies. ABOUT ABBY BARROWS With a BSc from the University of Tasmania and a Master of Philosophy in Human Ecology from the College of the Atlantic, Abby has been at the forefront of global microplastic pollution research since 2013. She has built the most extensive and diverse dataset on microplastics available to date, shaping international understanding and action on plastic waste in marine environments. Beyond research, Abby is a hands-on field scientist and educator, committed to raising awareness about plastic pollution and advocating for sustainable solutions. Currently, she is reimagining the future of aquaculture by designing and developing plastic-free gear for oyster and seaweed cultivation, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for our oceans. Schoodic Institute’s 2026 Summer Lecture Series events are free, thanks to support from our generous sponsor, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. Register online at https://schoodicinstitute.org/event/summer-lecture-series-abby-barrows/