David Attenborough in Blue Planet II did what many polymer scientists in Prof. Shaver's field have been trying to do for years: Convince the public and government that the challenges of plastic waste are real and need to be fixed. But is this as simple as doing away with single use plastic? This talk will explore the complex nature of our plastic environment, the interdependency of plastics on our goals for lowering our carbon footprint and increasing our expected lifespan, while also showcasing Prof. Shaver's work on how polymer chemistry has the opportunity to shape a new sustainable future by developing interdisciplinary solutions that work for all actors.
About the speaker: Professor Michael Shaver, FRSC, FIMMM, is the Professor of Polymer Science in the School of Natural Sciences at the University of Manchester where he leads initiatives in sustainable polymers, plastics and materials for the School and for the Henry Royce Institute, the UK’s national advanced materials science centre. Following a PhD in his native Canada from the University of British Columbia and an NSERC Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Imperial College London, he began his independent research career at the University of Prince Edward Island before moving to Scotland in 2012 where he was a Chancellor’s Fellow, Reader and finally Professor of Polymer Chemistry. He leads the Green Materials Laboratory on the development of sustainable materials, including new motifs for renewable, degradable and chemically recyclable materials. His work ranges from fundamental projects rooted in monomer design to working with industrial partners in plastic packaging, medical diagnostics and sustainable materials.
Why not join us after the lecture for a glass of wine and refreshments? The event is welcome to all, especially members of the public!
Unfortunately our venue is only accessible by staircase and not wheelchair accessible. Any queries and dietary requirements please contact us and we can try our best to help.
About the speaker: Professor Michael Shaver, FRSC, FIMMM, is the Professor of Polymer Science in the School of Natural Sciences at the University of Manchester where he leads initiatives in sustainable polymers, plastics and materials for the School and for the Henry Royce Institute, the UK’s national advanced materials science centre. Following a PhD in his native Canada from the University of British Columbia and an NSERC Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Imperial College London, he began his independent research career at the University of Prince Edward Island before moving to Scotland in 2012 where he was a Chancellor’s Fellow, Reader and finally Professor of Polymer Chemistry. He leads the Green Materials Laboratory on the development of sustainable materials, including new motifs for renewable, degradable and chemically recyclable materials. His work ranges from fundamental projects rooted in monomer design to working with industrial partners in plastic packaging, medical diagnostics and sustainable materials.
Why not join us after the lecture for a glass of wine and refreshments? The event is welcome to all, especially members of the public!
Unfortunately our venue is only accessible by staircase and not wheelchair accessible. Any queries and dietary requirements please contact us and we can try our best to help.