In this study, two common sources, i.e., domestic wastewater and road run-off from tire and road wear particles, were studied in detail to quantify the relative contribution of both domestic sources towards microplastic pollution in freshwater ecosystems in Flanders, Belgium. Assessment from the study revealed that every person in the study area emits an average of 1145 microplastics (25–1000 m) daily through domestic wastewater, resulting in a yearly discharge of 418,000 microplastic particles per person. The road run-off samples that were analysed contained between 0.02 and 9.2 mg of tire wear particles per litre per day, which corresponds to the emission of 10.8 mg of tire wear particles per driven vehicle km. The results of the study reveal that specific mitigation measures can be installed to reduce the emission of microplastics into the freshwater ecosystem. Also, various other sources can be quantified similarly for a more holistic strategy to counteract plastic pollution.
It aims to prevent, deter, and eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, aligning with FAO’s International Plan of Action. It strengthens fisheries governance, vessel monitoring, and regional cooperation to protect marine resources and livelihoods. The plan includes licensing regulations, ecosystem-based fisheries management, and stricter enforcement against IUU activities. It promotes sustainable fishing, marine biodiversity[…]
It promotes sustainable ocean management, marine biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. It aims to integrate scientific and traditional knowledge, enhance marine governance, and support a blue economy. The policy establishes marine protected areas, combats land and marine pollution (including plastic waste), and strengthens regulations on resource extraction. It aligns with international commitments such as the[…]
It aims to reduce marine pollution including plastic pollution through policy implementation, technological innovations, monitoring, and public awareness. It addresses land- and sea-based pollution sources, emphasizing circular economy principles and sustainable waste management. The plan aligns with international frameworks and includes 17 actions and 103 activities. Key strategies involve reducing single-use plastics, improving recycling systems,[…]
Ireland’s National Implementation Plan (2012) under the Stockholm Convention aims to control and eliminate Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). It outlines legal measures to restrict the production, use, and release of POPs, including pesticides, industrial chemicals, and unintentional by-products like dioxins and furans. The plan enforces monitoring, regulatory compliance, waste disposal, and public awareness campaigns. Efforts[…]
It aims to prevent and manage hazardous waste effectively while minimizing environmental and health risks. The plan prioritizes waste reduction, improved collection, and increased self-sufficiency in hazardous waste treatment. Key strategies include regulatory enforcement, waste prevention programs, and public awareness campaigns. The plan also promotes alternatives to hazardous materials, better disposal facilities, and stricter monitoring[…]