Estelle Praet

Research project

Galapagos Marine Plastics : How Can Archaeology Help Save the Archipelago (and the Planet)? 

Supervisors: 

John Schofield (supervisor)

Funding: 

Summary of research project

My collaborative research, at the crossroads between conservation, archaeology and policy-making, will address marine plastic pollution in Galápagos from an archaeological perspective and develop a methodology to include citizen scientists in this research. As plastic characterises most of the material evidence of the anthropocene, contemporary archaeology brings a unique perspective to its study through object narratives and biographies. By investigating the plastic-scape of the Galápagos, archaeology contributes to the understanding of marine plastic pollution at a local scale. Inclusion of citizen scientists in the Plastic Pollution Free Galápagos project will also lead the way for policy-making inspiring other islands to become plastic-free.

Plastic Pollution Free Galápagos is an international alliance of experts working to combat the threat plastic pollution poses to the unique biodiversity of Galápagos, Ecuador. Partners involved in Plastic Pollution Free Galapagos include Galápagos Conservation Trust, the Galapagos National Park Directorate, the Galapagos Science Center, Conservation International Ecuador, Charles Darwin Foundation, Utrecht University, University of Exeter, University of York, University of the Sunshine Coast and OrcaTec.

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