Background

Plastic waste is an increasing problem in water pollution worldwide. Due to their material properties, plastics hardly dissolve and thus remain in the environment for decades. Weather influences change the material and cause it to break down into smaller and smaller particles, down to the micrometre range.

The amount of microplastics (very small plastic particles, e.g. smaller than 5 mm) is steadily increasing in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. There are already several scientific studies on the effects of microplastics on oceans. For inland waters, there is much less data and knowledge available so far. Nevertheless, the few studies that have been conducted, contain clear indications that the situation in lakes is comparable to that in oceans.

Implementation

Following the “European Strategy for Plastics in the Circular Economy”, the Global Nature Fund (GNF), together with the Lake Constance Foundation and several Italian partners, has launched the “Blue Lakes” project. The focal points of the project are the prevention and reduction of the input of plastic waste into lakes. This is to be achieved in particular through dialogue and exchange with experts in water pollution control and by informing and sensitising the public. The aim is to compile current practical knowledge in order to develop and advance solutions for the up until now underestimated environmental problem of microplastics on the basis of a common understanding.

Decision-making processes are to be improved regarding microplastics in communities on lakes. To this end, the approximately 150 riparian communities on five Italian and German project lakes are being involved. The aim is to develop a “lake paper” to protect lakes from plastic and microplastics.

Technical solutions for wastewater treatment plants should show how the input of microplastics can be reduced. In addition, efficient strategies are needed on how microplastics can be avoided by motivating international companies from the cosmetics, outdoor and tyre industries to participate in a participatory process for prevention.

Contact

Contact person: Volker Kromrey

E-mail: volker.kromrey@bodensee-stiftung.org

Phone: +49 (0) 7732-9995-48

Homepage: https://lifebluelakes.eu/

Project Funding

EU LIFE