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Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

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Project • CRRP2024-04MY-Xue

Enhancing the science-policy interface to manage microplastic influx from major cities into the oceans in Southeast Asia

Plastic debris and microplastics (MPs) pose a mounting environmental threat, driven by urbanization and industrialization. Over 80% of these debris originate from land-based sources and ultimately end up in our oceans. Although the region of Southeast Asia (SEA) is recognized as a crucial area for the discharge of plastic waste into the sea, there remains a significant knowledge gap that impedes our understanding of the source-sink relationship and the entry of MPs into marine ecosystems, particularly from well-developed urban areas. Existing studies often fall short by focusing on specific environmental compartments or one-way outputs, neglecting the intricate interdependencies among various environmental compartments and pathway in aquatic ecosystems. Thus, a comprehensive system model is imperative, covering major land-based sources, aquatic pathways, and environmental sinks. This project aims to develop a holistic framework for quantitatively assessing MP influx in urban aquatic systems and fill the current knowledge gaps for MP management in selected SEA urbans. Key activities include critical literature reviews, field data collection, quantitative influx analysis, and policymaker engagement. The outputs of this project expect to provide evidence-based policy recommendations for relevant stakeholders including local government and environmental management agencies for formulate effective marine plastic pollution prevention strategies.