SDG

Relevant SDGs and Contributions for microplastic research study:

1. SDG 14: Life Below Water

   • Why? Both activities aim to reduce marine pollution and protect aquatic ecosystems. Analytical methods identify the type, colors and shape of microplastics, while beach clean-ups directly remove marine plastic waste of polymer materials, preventing it from breaking down into microplastics.

   • Target 14.1: Prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution, including microplastics.

2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

   • Why? Characterization studies inform waste management strategies, while clean-up activities encourage school and community awareness

   • Target 12.4: Ensure environmentally sound management of plastic wastes.

3. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

   • Why? Analytical methods help detect microplastic contamination in freshwater systems and identifying the source of microplastics near the waterways.

   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing plastic pollution.

4. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Why? Reducing plastics in the environment minimizes their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions during degradation. Public involvement in clean-ups also raises awareness about the link between plastic waste and climate issues.

   • Target 13.3: Improve education and awareness on climate change mitigation.

5. SDG 15: Life on Land

   • Why? Removing plastic waste from beaches prevents its movement to adjacent terrestrial and marine ecosystems, conserving biodiversity on land and in the water.

   • Target 15.1: Conserve terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems and reduce the impact of pollution.

6. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Why? Beach clean-ups foster community engagement in sustainable practices, reducing the environmental impact of urban waste on coastal areas.

   • Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse environmental impact of cities, particularly waste management.