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Value for money: a cost-effectiveness analysis of microplastic analytics in seawater
Summary
Researchers surveyed experts and used cost-effectiveness analysis to compare different lab methods for detecting microplastics in seawater, weighing factors like equipment costs, labor, and the ability to confirm a particle is actually plastic. The resulting tools help researchers and policymakers choose the best method for their budget and monitoring goals, a key step toward standardized ocean microplastic tracking.
Abstract The availability of many microplastic analysis methods is challenging for researchers and policy makers when tasked with choosing optimal methods for their research question and a given budget. In this study, a cost-effectiveness analysis of methods for microplastic analysis in seawater was performed using survey data acquired from experts. Total analysis cost per method was determined accounting for labour and equipment costs, while method effectiveness was scored based on their ability to confirm the plastic nature of particles, their minimum detectable particle size, and other parameters. Results were validated and discussed during two workshops with scientists and policy makers. The resulting predictive tools allow to identify the most cost-effective methods for specific scenarios, and their associated cost. They mark an important step towards a more effective and informed approach to monitoring and managing microplastic pollution in the marine environment, ultimately contributing to the protection of marine ecosystems and human health.