JPI Oceans Begins International Research into Microplastics in Europe: Focus on Standardised Measurements, Residuals, and Toxicity

Four research projects investigating the impact of plastic particles on the marine environment were selected for funding from ten member countries of the Joint Programming Initiative Healthy and Productive Seas and Oceans (JPI Oceans). Researchers meet today in Madrid to discuss their research aims and objectives. 

The JPI Oceans pilot action aims to improve our understanding of the impacts of microplastics. While several studies have already demonstrated harmful effects of plastic particles, the (ecotoxicological) impacts on organisms, populations and ecosystems are still understudied. The action aims to explore the risks associated with plastics in the marine environment, inter alia, by further examining the mechanisms of how plastic particles are taken up and passed along the trophic chain, thus potentially entering the human food chain.