Future Tense Microplastic removal and decarbonising cement
Nov 13, 2025
In this conversation, Dr. Shababa Selim, an expert on microplastics, discusses the challenges of tackling global plastic pollution following the failure of a treaty. Professor Paul Fennell shares insights on decarbonizing cement production and the complexities of implementing carbon capture technologies. Meanwhile, clinical psychologist Professor Jill Newby warns about the risks of seeking mental health advice from AI chatbots, noting their potential for misleading users. Dr. Pratik Sachdeva elaborates on how these chatbots reflect societal values and the dangers of relying on them for emotional support.
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Scale Of Global Plastic Pollution
- Between 19 and 23 million tonnes of plastic enter waterways and aquatic environments each year according to UNEP.
- Microplastics now pervade land, air and bodies, making plastics one of the major 21st-century environmental threats.
Two Types Of Microplastics
- Microplastics include primary (intentionally made) and secondary (from breakdown) particles under ~5mm.
- Primary microplastics enter products and manufacturing, while secondary ones stem from mismanaged waste.
Capture Tech Is Still Nascent
- No proven large-scale technology yet specifically targets environmental microplastics.
- Developers are testing filtration, magnetic capture, adsorbents and biological breakdown at pilot scales.