Problem Statement

An estimated 19 to 23 million tons of plastic waste enter aquatic ecosystems annually. Plastic decomposes very slowly and can persist in water for decades or even centuries. It breaks down into small particles, known as nano- and microplastics, which can be ingested by marine animals and could make their way to humans through the food chain. Furthermore, organisms can become entangled in plastic waste, and this waste can introduce pollutants into sensitive ecosystems. How can we halt the flood of plastic? And is it possible to remove plastic waste from our waters in an efficient manner without further harming the affected ecosystems?

Our Goal

The Ecologic Institute is preparing a short assessment report on "Technological Options for Reducing Plastic Waste in Oceans." This report will provide a systematic overview of the current state of technological developments. Numerous, diverse technologies exist for removing plastics from water bodies, with some already on the market and others close to market readiness. Examples include stationary installations for capturing plastic waste in rivers, complex towing devices for ships, remotely operated underwater drones, and bubble barriers in harbors. Over the past decade, there has been an intensive global phase of development for such technologies.

With this report, we aim to present a concise and scientifically robust overview of current knowledge. We will also identify knowledge gaps and offer a basis for informed decision-making. Selected technologies will be examined in greater detail, and potential scenarios for their use will be outlined. It is important to us to keep the root causes of plastic pollution in mind and ensure that technological solutions are paired with measures to prevent the introduction of plastic waste into the environment.

What We Do

The report will cover technologies in the following areas: a) wastewater treatment (including drinking water treatment facilities), b) river mouths and inland waters, c) harbors, coasts, and coastal areas, d) seas and oceans.

In our analysis of these technologies, we will pay particular attention to:

• potential negative impacts on aquatic life and ecosystems
• the efficiency and optimal deployment conditions
• what happens to the collected plastic waste

To compile this analysis, we are collaborating with Dr. Melanie Bergmann from the Alfred Wegener Institute and R. Andreas Kraemer from the Fundação Oceano Azul.