3rd edition of the interdisciplinary conference “Plastics & Environment. Exploring environmental, sustainability and planetary health dimensions

**Plastics & Environment: Exploring Environmental, Sustainability and Planetary Health Dimensions** June 4–5, 2026 | University of Milano-Bicocca, Agorà Building (U6), Aula Magna, Milan The third edition of the interdisciplinary conference *Plastics & Environment*, organised by the Research Centre POLARIS (Environmental Health and Sustainability) at the University of Milano-Bicocca, aims to foster dialogue on the environmental, health and sustainability challenges associated with plastics within the broader context of the ecological and climate transition.

The conference brings together researchers and experts from different scientific domains—including chemical, biological, environmental, social and economic sciences—to explore the complex impacts of plastics on ecosystems, human health and society.

Building on previous workshops organised by the University of Bologna, the initiative promotes interdisciplinary exchange and collaboration across institutions and research communities.

The programme addresses key topics such as the monitoring and characterization of micro- and nanoplastics, their environmental fate and ecotoxicological effects, human exposure and health risks, as well as socio-economic, cultural and governance dimensions related to plastic production, use and disposal. Particular attention is given to circular economy approaches, the development of safe and sustainable materials, and strategies for reducing plastic pollution. 

The conference also explores how scientific knowledge can inform public policy and societal action toward more sustainable material systems. A specific session, co-organized by the Ambassador Monica Bernardi, focuses on the role of cities in addressing plastic pollution and environmental health within the transition toward climate-neutral urban environments.

The event opens with a workshop titled *Designing the Next Generation of Sustainable Textiles: How Innovation and Regulation Come Together through Safe and Sustainable by Design*, bringing together researchers, industry representatives and policy stakeholders to discuss innovation and sustainability in the textile sector. 

By encouraging dialogue between science, policy, industry and society, the conference contributes to advancing knowledge and collective action on environmental sustainability, in line with the broader goals of the European Green Deal and climate neutrality.