Developing a novel methodology to assess ingestion, bioaccumulation, and impacts of micro- and nanoplastics in marine planktonic biota.

Microplastic pollution is an issue of increasing concern for the ecosystems and human health. In the last decade, microplastic ingestion and impact in biota has received significant attention. Despite the extensive research conducted, there is still need for improvements in the methodologies used for sample analysis. PlaSeatic aims to provide a new methodology for quantification and characterization of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) ingested by organisms in aquatic systems. This method seeks to surpass traditional techniques by reducing the risk of cross-contamination, lowering the size detection limits, preventing alterations and plastic loss while retaining the biological context of the particles.PlaSeatic will focus on copepods, which play a critical role in marine food webs and global geochemical cycles. However, with some adaptations, this methodology could be applied to other organisms or even human tissues. Additionally, this improved methodology could be implemented by other research groups, thereby, increasing homogeneity and accuracy in microplastic research— an urgent need recognized by the scientific community in this field.To achieve the objectives of the project, PlaSeatic rely on the synergy between my expertise in the assessment of ingestion and impact of microplastics in marine food webs and the extensive expertise on chemical engineering, microscopy and spectroscopy of the host (Prof. Roeffaers). This will be further supported by Dr. Pedrotti (supervisor in secondment), whose vast knowledge on plastic pollution and access to historical plankton samples will be invaluable to the project. PlaSeatic will raise public awareness about the impact of plastic pollution. Scientifically, it will enhance our understanding of MNP ingestion, bioaccumulation and impacts of MNPs in zooplankton. It thereby will contribute to the development of biomonitoring and mitigation strategies, and inform policy decisions aimed at ensuring the health of the oceans.