PhD Studentship: The Scourge of Plastic Waste: Analysing Issues of Sustainability and Accountability

Overview of the Project Area

This is an opportunity to conduct fully funded interdisciplinary research under the ‘Sustainable Transitions – Leverhulme Doctoral Training Programme’ at the University of Essex.

The aim of the project is to explore (i) the global plastic waste business to better understand the trade, policy and regulatory gaps, and (ii) the issue of sustainability and accountability related to the plastic waste trade.

Plastic products are everywhere in our global economy, including as waste. As a result of the cheap labour costs and weak environmental regulations, a large proportion of plastic waste generated in the Western world is being exported to poorer developing countries for recycling, and the trend in plastic waste trade is continuing to increase (Basel Action Network, 2023). The presence of non-recyclable plastic components, mismanagement of waste and the weak regulatory environment in developing countries are just some of the reasons why millions of tons of plastic waste have ended up in landfill sites, and the natural environment, including the oceans. This has created a range of environmental challenges and attracted global attention. This is a relatively new area of global concern, and so there is scope for the research to engage with an emerging business and legal topic.

Interdisciplinary focus and methods

By taking an interdisciplinary approach, you will explore and analyse the issue of sustainability and accountability in the transboundary movement of plastic waste from a business perspective (supervised by Dr. Upadhaya) and how this intersects with, or informs, the current national/global regulatory landscape regarding the global plastic waste trade (supervised by Prof. Hulme). This provides the opportunity to use mixed-methods (i.e. quantitative and qualitative) approaches.

Training and Support

You will be supported through the Sustainable Transitions training programme which provides initial training in interdisciplinary research methods, training in the secondary discipline within the project area and ongoing training throughout the duration of the programme. All doctoral scholars benefit from the support of Proficio entitles you to £2,500 that can be used to purchase training courses either within or external to the University. Additionally, Leverhulme scholars are entitled to £10,000 that can be used to cover research costs and further training. Doctoral scholars are encouraged to audit masters and degree level course where appropriate. You will also have the support of the Sustainable Transitions management team as well as your own supervisory team. Additionally, all Sustainable Transitions scholars will become part of the University of Essex ‘Centre for Environment and Society’ through which ongoing events and networking opportunities are available.

Person specification

This opportunity would suit a candidate with a degree/ background in business/ management/ accounting  with an interest in environmental issues and regulation. It is not necessary for the candidate to have prior training in law as that will be provided on the programme. 

Research Proposal

The project area is broadly defined, leaving scope for the applicant to develop their own specific research proposal as part of the application. The successful candidate will further develop their proposal in close consultation with the supervisory team.

Closing Date: 31st May 23:59 GMT