The Fidra Trustees have supported a novel programme of work at Fauna & Flora International (FFI) since 2012, which recognises the potential impact of microplastic pollution on marine biodiversity.

Over this time FFI has developed strong links with researchers, NGOs, industry representatives and regulators on a wide number of microplastic issues, and has worked to address a number of direct sources of microplastics. FFI is working constructively and collaboratively with corporate businesses to improve policies and practices that ultimately reduce direct sources of marine microplastic pollution.

Highlights of the ongoing work at FFI include the establishment of the Good Scrub Guide, a consumer-focused guide to plastic-free facial scrubs, which has provided a platform for FFI to engage with industry. In addition, a Good Scrub Guide Australia has also been produced. This project has also supported the development of a mobile App, Beat the MicroBead which was developed in partnership with the Plastic Soup Foundation.  Several major manufacturers have subsequently committed to withdraw microbeads from their cosmetic products.

FFI continues to engage with stakeholders across Europe and globally on the issue of microbeads in personal care and other products and is currently rolling out a significant programme of work that aims to address wider sources of industrial microplastic pollution.