Multilevel assessment of microplastics and associated pollutants in the Baltic Sea (MICROPOLL)
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | IVL SVENSKA MILJÖINSTITUTET AB - IVL Svenska MiIjöinstitutet Stockholm |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 788 762 |
| Project duration | July 2017 - September 2020 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
BONUS MICROPOLL focuses on the multilevel impacts of microplastics themselves, of associated pollutants and of attached biofilms on the Baltic Sea ecosystem. The project aims at the assessment of the current status of microplastic input and distribution in the Baltic Sea, emanating risks originating from microplastics, and the suggestion of cost-effective and user-friendly monitoring strategies regarding microplastics and associated pollutants.
Expected results and effects
The impact of microplastics on Baltic biota showed no or minor negative effects, genotoxicity increased via exposure to microplastics. It became clear that the problem is not solved by the marine system itself, for example through microbial biodegradation. The only way to prevent further pollution is through public education, the implementation of management measures and technical improvement to reduce identified microplastic input pathways. Via workshops, PR, scientific publications, and presentations at conferences we assured to spread the knowledge to a broad audience.
Planned approach and implementation
Compilation of facility data and microplastic emission calculations not only indicate that WWTPs contribute with considerable discharge of MP to the Baltic Sea despite relatively good removal efficiencies but also that Sanitary sewer overflows (SSO) may be a significant source for MP. With presented mitigation measures including technical solutions, a significant reduction of MP-emissions from WWTPs and SSO-events can be achieved. An average removal efficiency of 97% at WWTPs in the Baltic Sea basin is considered a reasonable target by the project.