ATLANTIC PLASTICS 2026

The threat of Plastic pollution to marine ecosystems and sustainable use of the ocean continues to grow steadily. A healthy ocean is fundamental to sustaining life on our blue planet. Reducing plastic pollution is crucial to safeguard marine ecosystems and ensure global well-being. The need for an international, legally binding plastics treaty, one that compels nations to cooperate on curbing plastic pollution and producing plastic more sustainably, has never been more urgent.

The symposium examines the sources and transport pathways of marine plastics and highlight interdisciplinary research on the economic, social and health dimensions of plastic pollution. This includes emerging fields of research such as the impacts of plastics on marine life, human health, and national, regional and global governance and actions. The symposium will also address practical mitigation strategies and their implementation, offering valuable input to ongoing negotiations on an international agreement on plastic pollution and other international efforts aimed at protecting the marine environment.

By broadening the geographic focus, #AtlanticPlastics2026 seeks to bring to light more research, more scientists, and more research institutions working in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Government of Iceland hosts the Third International Symposium on Plastics in the Atlantic at Harpa, Reykjavík Concert Hall and Conference Center, on 20-22 October 2026.

For more information on partners, the scientific steering committee and the organizing team, conference themes and the agenda visit Atlantic Plastics 2026 - Home(opens in a new tab).