Strengthening Microplastic Monitoring as a Public Service for Cleaner Beach (CLEAN Beach)

Strengthening Microplastic Monitoring as a Public Service for Cleaner Beach (CLEAN Beach)

The CLEAN Beach project addresses a significant environmental challenge – current beach microplastic pollution monitoring methods are not suitable for the diverse types of beaches in the Baltic Sea, which makes it difficult to compare data and effectively prevent pollution. The project will develop a method and guidelines for harmonized, simple and inexpensive microplastic pollution monitoring, organize public education activities and engage the public in reporting pollution using the Rosgis app.

As the lead partner LHEI will monitor the project activities and be involved in their implementation. Different approaches for detecting microplastics in sand will be evaluated, developing a unified, simple and inexpensive monitoring method that is suitable for different types of beaches. This will provide an opportunity to increase the number and frequency of monitored beaches. Special attention will be paid to informing and educating the public to promote environmental awareness and reduce beach pollution.

Project partners

• Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology – lead partner
• Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech)
• The Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE)