Speaker

Dr. Ana Catarino (Vlaams Instituut voor de Zee, VLIZ, Belgium)

Abstract

Plastic pollution is a major global concern for academics,public and policymakers due to the broad accumulation of plastic litter in the environment, and to its impact on both organisms and ecosystems. Dr. Catarino will delve into her research, which investigates the combined impacts of human activitieson aquatic organisms, such as the presence of nano-and microplastics andclimate change stressors, as well as on the actions to mitigate plastic pollution. The seminar will cover current efforts to address plastic pollution, including the discussion on remediation clean-up technologies, aimed at preventing plastic from entering the environment and cleaning up existing contamination. The presentation will also discuss the benefits of using holistic approaches which involve societal engagement. Furthermore, Dr. Catarino will discuss the importance of understanding plastic pollution within the context of other environmental stressors, such as ocean warming and acidification. She will discuss how these stressors can combine to affect marine organisms and ecosystems. The presentation will also acknowledge the current knowledge gaps in assessing the effects of complex mixtures of micro and nanoplastics and stress the need for further research in this area. Through this presentation, Dr. Catarino aims to contribute to the road towards mitigating plastic pollution, highlighting essential prospects for improving environmental quality and raising awareness.