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Coastal microplastic pollution: Understanding coastal community stakeholder perceptions and resolution priorities
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A study of coastal stakeholders in the United Kingdom found that local managers, businesses, and community groups have varying perceptions of the severity of microplastic pollution and often disagree on the priorities and responsibilities for addressing it. The research highlights a gap between scientific understanding of coastal microplastic risks and the on-the-ground awareness and coordination needed to implement the multi-stakeholder action plans called for under the 2022 UN resolution to end plastic pollution.
While scientific research and media coverage has led to some legislation and policy changes in relation to the plastic pollution problem, in general these developments have been uncoordinated. In 2022 the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) resolution to end plastic pollution became the first legally binding provision to address the problem; it includes a requirement for multi-level stakeholder action agendas. In this research, we examine how key stakeholders with management responsibilities within a coastal area on the south coast of the United Kingdom view the issue of coastal microplastics. We find that stakeholders are susceptible to the same influences as the public and are focussed on the global rather than the local issues of plastic pollution. We also find that visitors to these coastal areas appear to be unconcerned about the potential threat caused by MP either due to a lack of awareness or assessment of risk. The research also highlights the management priorities amongst the stakeholders and makes recommendations for a more localised approach to implementing management policies in the future.
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This review assessed the sources, spread, and impacts of microplastic pollution in marine environments and evaluated existing governance strategies for addressing the problem. Researchers found significant gaps in management approaches, including limited community involvement in monitoring and a lack of standardized mitigation strategies for coastal areas. The study calls for stronger policy interventions, more citizen science initiatives, and coordinated international efforts to reduce microplastic pollution in the oceans.
Research priorities on microplastics in marine and coastal environments: An Australian perspective to advance global action
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Researchers conducted a systematic review of microplastic research across Australian coastal environments and gathered expert stakeholder input to identify priority research directions. They found significant gaps in understanding microplastic sources, transport pathways, and biological impacts specific to Australian marine ecosystems. The study provides a framework of research priorities aimed at informing evidence-based policy and management strategies for microplastic pollution.
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This review systematically summarizes a decade of research on microplastic pollution and its ecological effects in coastal environments worldwide, identifying persistent technical challenges in sampling standardization, particle identification, and ecological impact assessment. Researchers highlight the need for unified methodologies to better understand the sources, fate, and biological consequences of coastal microplastic contamination.
Plastic Pollution of the Tennessee River: Comparing Risk Perceptions and Preferred Policy Solutions Between Stakeholders and the Public
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Researchers surveyed both the general public and local stakeholders along the Tennessee River about their perceptions of plastic pollution risks and preferred policy solutions. They found that while both groups recognized the environmental and health risks of plastic and microplastic pollution, their preferred approaches to addressing the problem differed. The study highlights the importance of understanding community perspectives when designing effective policies to reduce freshwater plastic contamination.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.