Cleaner Seas Group Opens World-First Microplastic Recycling Facility in Cornwall

World-first facility opens in Bude

A ground-breaking new facility aiming to tackle one of the planet’s most widespread pollution problems has opened in Bude.

The Microfibre Filter Hub, Microplastic Recycling Lab and Return + Recycle Centre, developed by the Cleaner Seas Group, is the first of its kind anywhere in the world. The centre is designed to capture and recycle up to 86 tonnes of microfibres every year before they reach the ocean.

Microplastic crisis ‘hiding in plain sight’

Microplastics are found in the air, the sea and even in the blood of humans. A 2022 study found 80% of people tested had microplastics in their blood, and the UN Environment Programme estimates 13 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean each year.

Cleaner Seas Group says its new Bude facility goes beyond simply trapping microplastics. Using a closed-loop process, the captured fibres are transformed into usable materials for construction, packaging, and even batteries.

Dave Miller, CEO of Cleaner Seas Group, said:

“Let’s be honest – microplastic pollution is a global crisis hiding in plain sight. It’s in our oceans, our food, our brains and our bloodstreams. We’re told it’s too complex to fix, too late to act – but we’re proving that’s not true.

“This new facility isn’t just about filtration or recycling – it’s about completely shifting the way we deal with waste and sustainable materials. It shows you don’t have to choose between protecting the planet and building a commercially viable business.”

Cornwall leads the way

The facility has received almost £928,000 in funding from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, managed by Cornwall Council and funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Cllr Adam Paynter, Deputy Leader of Cornwall Council, said:

“We’re proud to support innovative, purpose-led businesses like Cleaner Seas Group that are placing Cornwall at the forefront of global environmental solutions. This world-first facility is a testament to the kind of bold thinking we need to protect our planet and grow our green economy.”

Already making waves

Cleaner Seas Group’s microfibre filters are already being used in homes, businesses and industry. In 2024, Marella Cruises, part of the TUI Group, became the first cruise line to install the filters across its entire fleet. The move is expected to capture up to 500kg of microfibres per ship, per year.

The company says this is just the start. The Bude facility is the first step in a larger expansion plan, which will include new partnerships and further tech development.

About Cleaner Seas Group

Cleaner Seas Group is a UK-based environmental innovation company specialising in microfibre filtration for domestic, commercial and industrial use. From its Cornwall facility, the company is developing scalable, practical solutions to tackle microplastic pollution at its source. It is B Corp™ certified and works with businesses in sectors including travel, retail and manufacturing.

You can find out more about Cleaner Seas Group and their work on their website.