Limerick University Secures €1 Million to Combat Microplastics

The **Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)** has made significant strides in environmental research by securing over **€1 million** from the **Research Ireland National Challenge Fund (NCF)**. This achievement marks a pivotal moment for TUS, as it is the university’s first success in the prize phase of the NCF. The announcement was made by **James Lawless TD**, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

TUS was one of only six teams to receive funding from a total of **€8 million** allocated for innovative projects. The funding supports the **Traceless project**, which addresses the pressing issue of microplastics in forestry. Led by **Dr. Yuanyuan Chen** from TUS, in collaboration with co-lead **Professor Maurice Collins** from the **University of Limerick** and industry partner **Maurice Ryan** of **Green Belt Ltd**, the project emerged as the overall winner of the **Healthy Environment for All Challenge**.

Dr. **Liam Brown**, Vice President of Research, Development & Innovation at TUS, expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “This is a first for TUS and is a testament to our commitment to finding practical, scalable solutions to the global sustainability challenge. This project clearly demonstrates how applied research can deliver real-world impact and how innovation and sustainability are interlinked.”

Microplastics pose a significant environmental threat, particularly from plastic tree shelters commonly used in forestry, which degrade into harmful particles. The Traceless project aims to revolutionize these practices by developing fully biodegradable, durable tree-support products that incorporate controlled-release fertilizers. This innovation not only addresses the problem of microplastics but also aligns with **EU plastic reduction targets** and enhances soil health.

With the newly acquired funding, the Traceless team is set to scale its solution, positioning Ireland as a potential leader in sustainable forestry practices on a global scale. The project’s success could have far-reaching implications for environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture, showcasing how innovative research can lead to meaningful change in addressing ecological challenges.