This research explores the potential for creating a microplastics education programme which is centered in mātauranga Māori. The project utilizes Participatory Action Research and Kaupapa Māori Research Methods to create a culturally grounded science education initiative.

Through a case study at Te Pā o Rākaihautū, this research found that actively connecting scientific topics to Te Ao Māori (the Māori world) promoted Māori student engagement and understanding of complex topics. This connection must be continually affirmed and made relevant to the local Indigenous context. Connection to Te Ao Māori through te reo Māori (the Māori language), and pūrākau (oral histories) not only creates a positive learning environment but also improves the robustness of environmental science research in Aotearoa.

Research into microplastics and plastics pollution in Aotearoa would benefit greatly from an understanding of Te Ao Māori, and recognition of the responsibilities of Treaty Partners under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Similarly, policies and government actions on reducing plastics pollution must acknowledge the unique role of Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge in solving the plastics pollution crisis.