Microplastics as river sponges: from participatory science to laboratories (PLASTIPOL)

This project is led by “CNRS Laboratoire océanographie microbienne”. European rivers are now heavily contaminated by microplastics, which act as sponges for pollutants. By accumulating on their surface, many chemical contaminants are transported over long distances as a “raft” effect, promoting their dissemination at the watershed level and posing risks to ecosystems and human health.

This project aims to raise awareness and understanding of microplastic pollution and their role in the dispersion of pollutants within rivers, among managers, decision-makers and citizens. It is based on the participatory science campaigns conducted each year since 2019 by the Plastique à la loupe initiative, which brings together about 15,000 students and teachers per year. Microplastics collected in ten major French rivers (Loire, Seine, Rhône, Garonne, Meuse, Dordogne, Charente, Adour, Somme, Aude) and a Spanish river (Besòs) are being subjected to chemical analyses targeting 57 endocrine disruptors (bisphenols, phthalates, PCBs, solar filters), in order to assess the influence of upstream-downstream, of the uses of the territory and the proximity to urban areas.

By combining scientific research, citizen mobilization, and educational communication, the PLASTIPOL project aims to raise awareness among local residents, managers, and decision-makers. to promote dialogue between stakeholders in watersheds and inform public policies in favor of sustainable and shared river management.