Enhancing the Science-Policy Interface to Manage Microplastic Influx from Major Cities into the Oceans in Southeast Asia

Project Description

The project aims to strengthen the science–policy interface in managing microplastic (MP) pollution originating from major Southeast Asian cities and entering marine ecosystems. Funded by the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN), the initiative brings together experts from Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia to develop evidence-based frameworks and enhance policymaking capacity in the region.

Through interdisciplinary research, the project focuses on developing a Source–Pathway–Receptor (SPR) framework, conducting mass balance assessments, and building capacity among policymakers and stakeholders to manage urban microplastic pollution effectively.

Project Objectives:

The project includes three objectives aiming at gaining a systematic understanding of MPs entering the oceans through urban aquatic systems in the SEA Region

– To develop a suitable source-pathway-receptor (SPR) framework for a holistic understanding of MP transmission from Southeast Asian urbans through critical literature review.

– To quantitatively assess MP influx into marine ecosystems in selected urban areas based on the SPR framework and mass balance analysis.

-To strengthen the capacity of policymakers to understand the impact of urban MP pollution and formulate evidence-based policy frameworks.

Activities to be performed: