Dr. Imogen Napper: The “Plastic Detective” on Microplastics, Surfing, and Real Environmental Education

The “Plastic Detective”: Microplastics, Surfing, and Real Environmental Education

“Our planet is being pushed to its limits. We need to keep spreading the message and creating change through education. Let’s keep learning, having discussions – even if sometimes uncomfortable – and taking steps in the right direction.” – Dr. Imogen Napper

Known as the “Plastic Detective” for her groundbreaking research on microplastics in cosmetics, synthetic clothing, and global waterways, Dr. Imogen Napper is a marine scientist, National Geographic Explorer, and avid surfer. We spoke with Imogen about how connecting with the waves fuels her research, her favorite surf breaks, and why education is key to saving our oceans.

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Snapshot Profile

• Name: Dr. Imogen Napper
• Role: Marine Scientist, Research Fellow, & National Geographic Explorer
• Specialism: Microplastics, Fabric Microfibers, & Environmental Impact Research
• Local Break: Newquay / Cornwall (plus wave pool training in Bristol)

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The Interview

Where is your local break, and how do you stay sharp when the swell is down?

Imogen: I live in Plymouth, so I make the drive down to Newquay for my local break. We haven’t had the most luck with swell near home during the summer, but it always picks back up.

When there’s a lack of waves, I head to The Wave in Bristol since my parents live nearby. It’s amazing for consistent practice, trial, and error!

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What is your favorite surf spot in the world?

Imogen: I was doing some research out in the Bahamas on an island called Eleuthera. There was a break there called Surfers Beach that was virtually empty – maybe 2 to 5 surfers max, clean 3ft+ waves, and technically a reef break with plenty of water depth.

It was my first time surfing without a wetsuit, which was dreamy, and those sunsets will stay in my mind forever.

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Why is ocean protection so personal to you, and how does surfing play a role?

Imogen: I absolutely love surfing. I find it so grounding – it gives me a chance to reset, breathe, and immerse myself in a constantly changing environment. A large part of why I became a marine scientist in the first place is because of connecting with the ocean and learning about it through surfing.

The surf industry has an amazing opportunity to introduce more people to the sport, connect them directly to the natural environment, and provide genuine education on why we need to protect it.

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Imogen’s Recommendations & Inspiration

Organisations Making an Impact

• Surfers Against Sewage: A charity creating positive environmental change through consumer awareness, industry accountability, and governmental action.
• The Wave Project: A charity providing surfing opportunities and wave therapy for disadvantaged children. Having volunteered in their sessions, seeing the happiness and confidence it gives kids is truly heartwarming.
• Finisterre: A cold-water surf and apparel brand crafting sustainable, durable clothing built to last rather than feeding into fast fashion, using ethically sourced materials.

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Final Thought

Imogen: “Our planet is being pushed to its limits. We need to keep spreading the message and creating change through education. Let’s keep learning, having discussions (even if sometimes uncomfortable), and taking steps in the right direction. And as the cherry on top, keep surfing to remind yourself why we need to protect it!”