Sindhura Stothra Bhashyam

Research Assistant
sindhura.stothrabhashyam@gmail.com

Growing up there was only one thing I was absolutely certain of – I wanted to work with/for animals in some capacity. So, for my Bachelors I studied Biology, specializing in Zoology. I then gained a scholarship to attend a postgraduate diploma course in Mauritius. The course focused on endangered species and the techniques that can be used to conserve them. During this experience, I witnessed first-hand how fragile ecosystems can be and how every human action can have a ripple effect. It was also during this time that my love for the ocean grew. I recently completed and MSc in Marine Biology, through the IMBRSea programme. During my MSc, I developed a strong interest in the field of microplastics. For my MSc thesis, I investigated the occurrence of microplastics in mixed demersal fisheries in Galway Bay. Currently, I am part of a team that is writing a technical report for a European NGO called Seas at Risk. The report focuses on the sources and impacts of microplastic pollution on the environment. Furthermore, as a part of the report, we aim to suggest a set of policy recommendations that could help mitigate the impact of plastic pollution on the environment.

Cropped image for project website
This project consists of a literature review of the impacts of microplastics in the marine environment and on the proposal of mitigation and/or reduction policy recommendations to address this global environmental issue.