Summary

I am a Research Associate for the Revolution Plastics Institute at the University of Portsmouth. I support all research areas within the Institute, including plastics policy analysis for the Global Plastics Policy Centre.

My research focuses on environmental conservation and sustainability, particularly addressing the interconnected challenges of plastic pollution and the ecological restoration of marine habitats. My work has real-world impact, from providing a strong evidence base for an ambitious global plastics treaty to offering policy and restoration guidance for key ecosystems. 

As a marine biologist, my interests include ecological restoration and uplift, particularly in seagrass, saltmarsh and kelp forest ecosystems to enhance their ecological function to mitigate climate change. I have applied experience in creating nursery habitats for marine species, using artificial structures for rewilding and enhancing biodiversity. 

I am a STEM Ambassador and regularly lead outreach and public engagement activities related to plastics and marine biology. I am passionate about engaging others—whether individuals or industry—to advocate for positive societal and environmental change. Working with school children has been particularly rewarding, as their interest and engagement have led to repeat visits. My outreach and engagement activities have featured on both national and local BBC News.

Biography

I hold an undergraduate degree in Biology and a Master’s degree in Marine Biology from the University of Portsmouth. My MRes research project implemented artificial habitats known as "BioHuts" in three marinas across the Solent — identifying their function as nursery habitats and how variations in habitat complexity impacted their ecological function. I collaborated with industry partners, including marina companies, the Seahorse Trust and Boatfolk, for public engagement and assessed the impact of boat leisure and recreation.

I previously worked as a Benthic Taxonomist for geo-data specialist, Fugro. I assessed samples for indicator species that could be affected by development in or around fragile ecosystems, such as offshore oil drilling sites. At the University’s Institute of Marine Sciences, I researched seagrass and saltmarsh ecosystems, particularly the effects Wightlink ferries had on their ecologcial functions.

My interest in marine biology and plastic pollution began in childhood, sparked by summers spent diving and fishing in Cyprus, where I observed a gradual increase in plastic pollution and decrease in fish populations. I have witnessed plastic pollution at all research field sites, seeing firsthand its detrimental effects on ecosystem health. An independent trip to Thilafushi in the Maldives, a man-made ‘plastic island,’ further motivated me to seek solutions to the plastic pollution crisis.

Research interests

My research interests include: 

• Plastic pollution and policy development
• Ecological uplift
• Biodiversity enhancement
• Nursery habitats
• STEM engagement and outreach
• Rewilding Initiatives

Media availability

Interested journalists can contact the University's Media and Communications team for support and advice on all media engagement, including out of hours.

I am happy to take calls and emails from the media on my research, and am aware of the need to respond to journalists in a timely manner. Please email georgios.georgiou@port.ac.uk.