Ecological aspects of Microplastics

This research call initiative builds on the results of previous joint transnational call “Ecological aspects of microplastics in the marine environment”. JPI Oceans members, including Malta, launched another call in 2018, with an approximate budget of 9.2 million euros.

This joint transnational call intended to increase the knowledge about the relevant sources of microplastics, analytical methods for identifying smaller micro- and nano- plastics, monitoring their distribution and abundance in marine systems and their effects thereon as well as concepts to reduce inputs of plastic into the marine environment.

This call comprised of four main themes:

1. Identification, characterisation and quantification of the major microplastic sources, especially mechanisms and time scales of microplastic fragmentation

2. New sampling and analytical methodologies – focusing on the smaller (nano-) particles and in situ measurement methods for all matrices (water, sediment, biota)

3. Monitoring and mapping of microplastics in the marine environment including its effects on the marine environment

4. Concepts to reduce inputs of plastics into the marine environment including through new recycling methods, raising public awareness, promoting behavioural change, socio-economic analysis.

Project Briefs: