NET4mPLASTIC - New Technologies for macro and Microplastic Detection and Analysis in the Adriatic Basin

Microplastic (MP) is a global concern and their accumulation on beaches, marine sediments and marine habitats is now well recognized worldwide. However, there is very limited data related to microlitter and MP in the Adriatic Sea. Furthermore, even if knowledge of the occurrence, composition, size and distribution of MP is paramount to understanding their risk, there is still a lack of standard operation protocols for MP sampling, detection and quantification and as a consequence there is a lack of reliable data on concentrations of MP and composition of polymers within the marine environment. Consequently, there is a need to improve and develop methods to reduce the identification time and effort and to detect MP.
The NET4mPLASTIC project, based on a partnership composed by Ferrara University – UNIFE, Trieste University – UNITS, Marche Region, Hydra Solutions SRL, Prosoft LTD, Veterinary Public Health Institute of Abruzzo and Molise Regions – IZSAM, Teaching Institute for Public Health –TIPH, Public Institution RERA SD for coordination and development of Split Dalmatia County – RERA SD and Split University – UNIST-FGAG, aims to collect data on the distribution and composition of the MP along the Croatian and Italian coastal and marine areas. A harmonized sampling and extraction procedure will be used to gain knowledge on MP accumulation in different environmental contexts in four macro-pilot areas (identified according to their geomorphological characteristics), providing a systematic comparison on levels of MP on beaches, marine environment and biota at both a regional/local scale. A numerical model, already used by the Marche region, will simulate the marine transport processes of the MP in the Adriatic Sea to identify possible MP concentration zones in the pilot areas according to fluvial discharge and marine conditions.
Field surveys (using innovative and traditional approach) will be performed to validate the numerical simulations and map the MP distribution. The drone images will be used to identify the presence of plastic, while some other parameters will be measured in real time by installing a specific platform on boats or on marine drones. Sampling will be done at the river mouth, in marine environment, on the beach and collecting biota samples. Chemical and biological analysis will identify the MP, possible origin of the MP and possible health impacts. Correlation between the presence of PCBs/Dioxins and MPs in bivalves will be also investigated as well as the origin of the MP.
All the results and data of the project, stored in an integrated online platform, will be used to develop a useful tool for forecasting MP accumulation and provide early warning system, useful for the local authorities and shellfish farmers. Finally, the possibility of recycling micro and macroplastics will also be analysed and a defined methodology for its recycle will be tested, using an existing International Patent.

Notizie (in italiano)

• Salvare l’Adriatico dalla plastica | Al via il nuovo progetto europeo NET4mPLASTIC
• Plastiche nell’Adriatico | Il prof. Simeoni intervistato al TG Regionale