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Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
University of Wisconsin–Madison
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  1. Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
  2. Issue Brief
  3. Plastics

Plastics

Detecting Microplastics at the Smallest Scales in the Great Lakes

Posted on February 12, 2026

Innovative filtration and sensor technologies could be key to detecting and understanding microplastic pollution in the Great Lakes.

Posted in Plastics

Advancing Plastic Recycling in Wisconsin: The STRAP Technology

Posted on February 12, 2026

A breakthrough technology in plastics recycling could support Wisconsin manufacturing and make us a national leader in advanced recycling.

Posted in Plastics

Flax: A Wisconsin-Grown Alternative to Plastics

Posted on February 12, 2026

Flax is a promising plastic alternative that could support Wisconsin farmers, protect our pollinators, and make Wisconsin a leader in the circular bioeconomy.

Posted in Plastics

Types of Single-Use Plastic Cups Influence Recycling Accuracy

Posted on February 12, 2026

Waste audits can help improve plastic recycling rates, inform institutional purchasing, and accelerate sustainable innovation.

Posted in Plastics

Evaluating Tradeoffs in Plastic Waste Management

Posted on February 12, 2026

A new framework for assessing plastic waste management technologies can identify pathways that maximize profitability and minimize environmental impact.

Posted in Plastics

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