Microplastics and nanoplastics strategies

Evidence-based, regulatory-aligned microplastics expertise

WRc provides specialist consultancy in microplastics monitoring, analytical characterisation and scientific interpretation to support confident, evidence-based environmental decision-making. Using ISO-aligned methodologies, contamination-controlled workflows and advanced LDIR and FTIR technologies, we generate reliable data on polymer type, particle size and morphology across different water and environmental matrices. By combining technical analytics with environmental toxicology and regulatory expertise, we help organisations interpret complex monitoring data to support operational planning, environmental management and emerging compliance standards.

WRc

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Building reliable evidence for microplastics

Microplastics are receiving increasing attention from regulators, industry and the public, creating a growing need for reliable evidence across water and environmental systems. Alongside initiatives such as the Water Industry National Environmental Programme (WINEP) and the Chemical Investigations Programme (CIP), organisations require practical support to generate, interpret and apply monitoring data within their operational and environmental context.

Understanding where microplastics occur, how they move through treatment systems and how they vary across locations and environmental matrices is becoming increasingly important for environmental management and future planning. WRc helps organisations build robust, site-specific evidence through monitoring, analytical characterisation and scientific interpretation, enabling informed decision-making and improved preparedness for evolving regulatory expectations.

Client-focused consultancy: Concise, accessible reporting that clarifies regulatory obligations.
Independent expertise: Honest, objective guidance tailored to your technical challenges.Regulatory risk reduction: Expert interpretation of complex risk assessment standards to prevent non-compliance.

We offer flexible consultancy services that can be tailored to specific operational, environmental and research objectives. From one-off investigations to long-term monitoring programmes, our services help organisations answer targeted questions and build evidence relevant to their assets and environmental systems.

Our services

Monitoring strategy and sampling programme design, and hazard evaluation across different environmental sources
Laboratory analysis and polymer characterisation using rapid LDIR and FTIR technologies
Treatment performance and microplastic removal investigations across treatment processes
Independent interpretation of internal and industry datasets (e.g., CIP1-4)
Technical reporting and evidence review to support planning and future monitoring activities

Independent and trusted advisors

We are an independent advisor on the risks posed by chemicals, micro-organisms, and other naturally occurring and man-made substances to the environment. Its services are relied upon by regulators. We work across chemicals, consumer and industrial products, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, substances of emerging concern, including microplastics and PFAS.

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