Global danger of plastic pollution explored by inspirational film

The global danger of ocean plastic pollution was explored by more than 100 students, researchers and members of the public at a special University of Essex film screening.

The director of the environmental documentary X Trillion, Eleanor Church (Lark Rise Pictures), presented her movie and then led an expert panel.

X Trillion follows the renowned all-women eXXpedition North Pacific voyage led by Emily Penn, as a crew of 14 women sail 3,000 nautical miles across the Pacific Ocean to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

It documents their journey through the world’s largest accumulation of ocean plastic, aiming to reveal the scale of pollution that is often hidden from view.

Watch the trailer below

Following the screening, hosted by the School of Life Sciences and Essex Law School, experts discussed the science, policy and human impact behind the plastic crisis.

Eleanor was joined by marine scientist Professor Leanne Hepburn, law expert Professor Karen Hulme, and sustainability PhD researcher Charles Mensah for a question-and-answer panel chaired by Dr Anna Sturrock and Dr Etienne Durand.

The discussion explored how scientific research, policy, business and storytelling can work together to address the growing problem of environmental problems such as marine plastic pollution.

Dr Sturrock said the event helped show students how research can translate into real-world impact.

Dr Sturrock said: “In order to tackle today’s complex environmental problems, we need our University graduates to be able to communicate their science and work with diverse communities to develop sustainable and practical solutions.

"Eleanor’s film provided a wonderful example of how we can integrate science and storytelling to reach a much wider audience.”

The screening formed part of the University’s new Translational Ecology teaching module, which focuses on working with stakeholders to turn environmental research into practical solutions.

Organisers said the strong turnout and lively discussion highlighted growing public interest in tackling plastic pollution and protecting ocean ecosystems.