A new study reveals an alarming number of mechanisms throughout the life cycle of plastic that could enhance or spread antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

This study highlights a lack of firsthand investigation for several of the theoretical links between plastics and AMR, and identifies urgent research questions to help society tackle these AMR pathways before they become a more serious threat.

“By highlighting the interactions between plastics at different life cycle stages and AMR under the umbrella of a changing climate, research and mitigation efforts may be more appropriately targeted, and solutions can be developed to address these issues in parallel, such as reformed governance, interconnected policy or joint monitoring frameworks,” said Emily Stevenson, lead author and Ph.D. researcher at the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory.

Access the study here.