Plastic pollution is a threat to biodiversity and human health. Diverse and effective solutions to this issue are needed, and should include source-reduction, improved and more sustainable waste management, and cleanup. We combine innovative prevention strategies and case studies with empirical research and knowledge transfer/mobilization to policy makers and managers.
Fellows will have a passion to reduce plastic pollution and a creative idea to lead their own Pollution Prevention Project on a source of plastic pollution (e.g., construction foam, cigarette butts, textile waste, leakage from garbage bins).
Call for Proposals
This program supports one fellow annually. Calls for applications begin in February each year with fellows beginning as early as May.
Review the full position details and include the following when submitting your proposal:
- A short cover letter describing why you would like this position and why you are qualified for it.
- A two-page proposal that includes background on the problem (i.e., source of plastic pollution) with references, the objectives of your proposed research or pilot project, an action plan for your research project or pilot to test a solution, any preliminary data if relevant to your expected results, the significance of the project, and a budget.
- Your CV or resume, including the contact information of two references.
Review position description here.
Email completed application to Dr. Chelsea Rochman (chelsea.rochman@utoronto.ca) by Monday March 2, 2026.
Current Fellow
2025
Madeleine Milne
Sipping Sustainably (single-use straws)
Past Fellows
2024
Diego Arreola Fernandez
Garbage-less Groceries (plastic produce bags)
2023
Simran Hansra
Wipes Vs. Pipes (wet wipes)
2022
Eden Hataley
Operation Sweep the Creek (plastic pre-production pellets)
This fellowship is supported by Community Matters Toronto and Juanne Clarke.
Community Matters Toronto is a registered charity supporting local initiatives in St. James Town and the surrounding neighbourhoods. Focused originally on grassroots community development, they have gradually pivoted to direct resources and efforts using a similar approach in meeting the climate emergency confronting us today. Juanne Clarke is a friend of Community Matters Toronto.
