New funding for research to advance plastics science

Press Release

2026-05-14

The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) are pleased to announce $8.6 million in funding for 17 projects that will advance scientific knowledge and inform the development of evidence-based policies and regulations on plastics.

These projects will generate new scientific evidence on how plastic pollution moves through ecosystems, accumulates in wildlife and humans, and can be detected, mitigated or prevented across diverse environments. Together, the projects will lead to innovative monitoring technologies, community-led research frameworks, exposure and toxicity data and models that clarify the fate, transport and health impacts of plastics—from soils and farms to cities, wetlands, wastewater systems and Indigenous communities.

For more information about the supported projects, please read the NSERC – ECCC Call for Proposals on Plastics Science and Innovation for a Cleaner and More Sustainable Future.

Quotes:

By investing in science and research, we are delivering real benefits for Canadians—strengthening our economy, advancing discovery and ensuring that innovation translates into meaningful impacts in people’s lives. These investments are helping position Canada’s research community to tackle today’s challenges and drive progress for the future.

The Honourable Mélanie Joly
Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

The Government of Canada is committed to reducing pollution, protecting our health and environment, and growing a sustainable economy. By advancing science-based, Canadian-made solutions and working collaboratively across sectors, we can help keep plastics in the economy and out of the environment.

The Honourable Julie Dabrusin
Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature

Today’s funding is part of the Government of Canada’s ambitious, evidence-based and comprehensive plan to reduce plastic waste and pollution and move towards a strong, safe and resilient circular plastics economy. By empowering researchers and communities with the tools they need, we are strengthening the contributions of plastics science to policy and decision-making, improving both human and environmental health.

Professor Alejandro Adem, FRSC

President, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada

More information

• This call aligns with Canada’s Plastics Science Agenda and the Science assessment of plastic pollution.
• This call is an important element of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive plan to reduce plastic waste and pollution.

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