Landmark research by physical geographers at the University has established that urban river beds can be heavily contaminated with microplastics. This research began as a curiosity-driven piece of river catchment science across Greater Manchester that quickly gained visibility beyond the academy to become part of a national debate about the state of Britain’s rivers, the environmental impact of sewage-dumping water companies, and years of failure to monitor and regulate water company activities.  

Watch the microplastics in UK rivers short animation. 

Researchers in Chemical Engineering and Analytical Sciences have worked with our spin-out company Arvia Technology to develop an electrochemical process that has dramatically reduced wastewater pollution levels and enabled water recycling across numerous industries.

The Arvia process has reduced pollutant levels from pesticides to match UK drinking water standards; removed 90% of pharmaceutical residues and natural hormones from industrial wastewater; and reduced the release of high microbial wastewaters which can cause anti-microbial resistance.

Arvia Technology has now installed treatment systems in 25 companies across 11 countries, including the UK and China.

Our National Graphene Institute Membranes Lab has pioneered a graphene-oxide membrane that can filter salts out of water, making it safe to drink.

This game-changing technology is more efficient and affordable than other desalination technologies and could provide affordable and sustainable clean water solutions to millions of people.