BPF Grows: 8 New Universities Join Membership in 2024

At the British Plastics Federation (BPF), we believe that collaboration with academic institutions is essential to driving innovation and fostering meaningful change in the plastics industry. By inviting universities to join the BPF as associate members, we aim to bridge the gap between academic research and industry by facilitating cutting-edge advancements that propel the industry forward.

2024 Highlights

In 2024, the BPF’s UK universities membership almost doubled to total 19 with others pending for 2025. University engagement has resulted in 8 presentations by leading researchers at BPF seminars, webinars, member meetings and showcase events such GRIPS. Additionally, the "Meet the University" online event resulted in collaborations with members on a one-to-one basis. Students too are benefitting with over 100 students completing BPF online CPD courses.

The collaboration has resulted in the BPF being invited to chair and be members of a total of 8 university industry advisory groups as well invitations to present and participate in conferences and symposia that are directly relevant to member interests. This has also included advice to leading academics who are advising government on shaping policy.

Last year BPF actively supported a range of research projects and proposals by offering in-kind contributions, including expert advice and guidance in specialised areas to advance polymer research. BPF have provided five letters of support to universities, enhancing the strength, competitiveness and relevance of their research proposals and seen a number resulting in winning funding submissions.

Furthermore, the BPF has actively contributed to academic research by proposing a range of student research project in new areas of research that align with industry needs and emerging trends. This enables students to explore more impactful areas of study, enhances their academic learning and gaining an appreciation of the evolving demands of the polymer sector.

Bridging the Gap Between Industry and Future Innovators

To address the skills gap within the industry the BPF participated in 3 university careers fairs, raising awareness on the diverse roles available within the plastics industry. It was an opportunity to showcase the critical role plastics play in the latest advancements in technology and sustainability in our modern lives.

We are excited to continue working with universities in 2025, reaffirming our dedication to innovation, research and education. If you're interested in working with our university associate members CLICK HERE to fill out a contact form and someone will be in touch.

Discover the esteemed 2024 BPF University Network...

	AMRC Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, University of Sheffield. A world leader in manufacturing excellence, part of the national High Value Manufacturing Catapult network of research centres.
	Aston University has a strong track record of developing technological innovations on polymers and biopolymers, including sustainable chemical and thermal recycling methods. We help businesses to develop their products, new technologies, and circular economy approaches for sustainable plastics product design, production, commercialisation, consumption, and recovery of used plastics materials.
	Birmingham City University (BCU) is a large and diverse university set in the heart of Birmingham with a focus on practice-based learning.
	University of Birmingham (Plastics Network). We are an interdisciplinary team of over 40 researchers, working together to shape the fate and sustainable future of plastics.
	Polymer IRC University of Bradford offers a range of polymer-related R&D and training activities for the plastics industry.
	Brunel University London (BUL) is a dynamic institution, offering a broad skill set in developing and delivering collaborative research and development projects and consultancy with industry. Amongst its key research areas are: inorganic and organic materials chemistry and integration into polymeric materials, polymer processing, design of sustainable solutions for applications ranging from packaging to automotive and horticulture, and a novel systems-based lifecycle sustainability assessment tool for strategic decision-making.
	University of Hull. School of Natural Sciences - Chemistry. University of Hull have a track record of supporting the growth and innovation of businesses and the regional economy, working with businesses across all sectors and sizes. We'll help you develop your ideas, grow your business and connect with like-minded organisations and research experts.
	Leeds Beckett University. The Retail Institute. Retail consultancy leading the consumer experiences of the future in retail, food and packaging.
	University of Leicester At the heart of the UK, Leicester is a leading university committed to international excellence, world-changing research and high quality inspirational teaching. Founded in 1921, the University of Leicester has been providing world-class education and cutting-edge research for over a century.
	Loughborough Univeristy provide expertise and world-leading researchers to realise your business goals – supporting growth, innovation, skills development and sustainability. Some partnership schemes are free or funded.
	Swansea University - Astute Centre of Excellence collaborate with businesses in the manufacturing industry to boost productivity and growth by applying advanced engineering technologies to complex manufacturing challenges.
	The University of Manchester provide Research for your business, Knowledge exchange, Consultancy, Commercialisation, Continuing professional development.
	The University of Nottingham works with academics and external partners to deliver research impact and to create new commercial opportunities, engages with businesses to deliver services, develops strategic partnerships with key corporate businesses, supports access to collaborative R&D funding, including Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and Innovate UK.
	University of Plymouth provides education and research facilities for the polymer industry.
	The Revolution Plastics Institute at the University of Portsmouth undertakes inclusive, solutions-focused research and innovation to support the transition to a sustainable plastics future.
	Queen's University Belfast provides research in various aspects of polymers, including consultancy, process design and assessment, process troubleshooting, analytical services, co-development partnerships, education and training.
	The University of Sheffield. A world-class university – a unique student experience. Sheffield is a research university in the Russell Group with a global reputation for excellence.
	WMG Warwick University helps manufacturing SMEs to develop new products and materials, test and recycle materials, and make manufacturing smarter and more efficient.
	University of York - Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence (GCCE) is a world-leading academic facility for pioneering pure and applied green and sustainable chemical research, providing innovative solutions for a circular economy, specialising in renewable feedstocks, green synthesis, sustainable technologies and design for sustainable reuse/degradation/recovery.