Lead institution:
Co-lead by Flanders Marine Instiute (VLIZ), University of Gent and Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), and funded by the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO, 1S13522N/1S13524N) – Belgium
Plastic pollution is widespread, and its consequences are of concern. As a major source of plastic litter in the ocean is produced inland and transported via inland waterways, various clean-up technologies have been created to remove debris and prevent its flux to the sea. The primary aim of these innovative and important technologies is to collect plastic efficiently. However, some organisms and organic materials might be caught together with the debris. Currently, there is a lack of clear guidelines for these technologies, and an objective tool to quantify and assess the potential bycatch is missing.
To assist policymakers, environmental managers, and companies involved in plastic removal this project develops a tool for clean-up mechanism and location selection based on environmental parameters to efficiently collect plastic with the least unwanted impact on the environment.
This project is hosted by the Ocean Decade Programme Early-Career Ocean Professionals (ECOP).
End Date: 31/10/2025
Lead Contact: Giulia Leone (giulia.leone@vliz.be)
