The plastic waste problem in Frisian waters is a growing concern for the environment and water ecosystems. This plastic waste, varying in type and size, slowly breaks down into microplastics, which can have major consequences for both biodiversity and human health. A large part of this plastic comes from domestic channels.

This project will provide a good insight into the extent and route of the macro- and microplastic via the Frisian waters to the Wadden Sea. The problem is growing but not unsolvable. An essential part of the solution lies in good cooperation between local and more central governments, which have been involved in this project. The project Gjin Plestik nei ús Waad consists of four phases.

The first Phase:

“To measure is to know”, is entirely devoted to mapping the main hotspots and routes of the plastic waste problem in the waters of Friesland. Here, cameras, GPS sensors, source research and microplastic measurements are used to create a good overview of the quantities and main factors that influence the distribution in the Frisian waters.

The second phase:

It is about making well-considered choices for the use of removal techniques and prevention campaigns. This is about making a sustainable choice for practical solutions that will function well in the long term. These measures can be both preventive (e.g. information campaigns) and corrective (e.g. passive plastic retention in water in urban areas or active plastic removal at pumping stations). Noria will organize the selection session and present the information, such as the behavior of the plastic and the advantages and disadvantages of the different options, in a structured way. Then, the well-considered choice is made.

The third phase

It will be about the actual implementation of the removal measures and thus the reduction and elimination of external threats (plastics). In this phase, six techniques will be used to remove plastic from the water. During this phase, the costs and long-term and short-term effectiveness of the various interventions will be closely examined. After a term of about a year, the measures will be evaluated, after which there is still time to make adjustments if necessary.

The fourth and final phase

It is all about sharing the results. This will be done, among other things, in a visually attractive report, which is also accessible and easy to read for non-experts. In addition, a simple final symposium will be held, and a project video will be shared (online). During the symposium, an overview of the project will be given, in which we will share the knowledge and information we have gained during the process. During the project, an online dashboard will also be made available with interim results from the moment there are sufficient results.