Despite ongoing research efforts to trace the fate of plastics in marine environments, there are still large gaps in knowledge about the sources, degradation rate and dominant uptake processes – especially with respect to small micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), due to a lack of appropriate sampling and analysis. We address these gaps within PlastTrack. 

Results must be validated and harmonized. This is important to ensure a good data basis that can facilitate, for example, national or global agreements to limit microplastic pollution.

Major challenges for sampling and analyzing any type of MNP arise from the heterogeneity of the target particles, complex environmental matrices, and considerable risks of contamination. A good data base can facilitate national and global agreements to reduce microplastic pollution. Significant progress towards a harmonization of sampling and analytical methods for MP has been made in recent years. We use the database SIMPLE together with other scientists. Please contact us, if you are interested. 

 We developed a sampling protocol to assure quality of the samples. Most measures adapt best-practice from studies from sampling water. Based on ongoing practical experience, they might be further refined during the course of the PlastTrack project – especially with respect to handling the newly targeted 0.2–15 μm size fraction of MNPs.