OU launches plastic waste initiative with BBC

Posted on 28 July 2018 • Science

Following the impact of Blue Planet II, The Open University (OU) and the BBC have launched an online platform, which brings together programmes and resources to help us understand plastics, the impact they have on the environment, and top tips to reduce our reliance on single-use plastics.

Plastics Watch brings together engaging and interactive content from the BBC and the OU on topics ranging from: How did we get a world full of plastic? and How does plastic move around the oceans?, to How to shop in a plastic-free supermarket.

The initiative follows on from the popular BBC/OU co-production, Blue Planet II. Presented by Sir David Attenborough, the series reached over 37 million in the UK and inspired national interest in reducing plastic pollution.

OpenLearn launches ‘Plastic planet’ hub

The OU has launched a Plastic planet hub on its free online learning platform, OpenLearn, which offers articles, free courses, and videos about plastics – what they are made of, and the issues and solutions to pollution.

Head of Broadcasting and Partnerships at The Open University, Dr Caroline Ogilvie, said:

“Plastics Watch is a great legacy from Blue Planet II and we are delighted to have the opportunity to use our extensive expertise in this area to support the campaign. Public engagement initiatives like this are a fundamental part of the great partnership between the OU and the BBC.”

Learn more about Plastic Action on the OpenLearn hub.