New research has shown that personal care sanitary products are contributing to microplastic pollution in Irish waters.

A study carried out at NUI Galway found that 50% of so-called 'flushable' wet wipes were made of plastic and were not biodegradable.

Scientists also examined sediment at Grattan Beach in Galway and discovered that 91% of the microplastic fibres found there were derived from wet wipes and sanitary towels.

Dr Liam Morrison from the School of Natural Sciences at NUI Galway, who led the study, joined us to further discuss the findings.