POPUP talk: measuring and monitoring microplastics in soils

CLOSECYCLE invites you for the POPUP TALK about microplastics! In the project CLOSECYCLE potential organic waststreams are characterized and analyzed. One of the analyses is on microplastics. CLOSECYCLE is in contact with the project MiCoS, were from thoroughly describing the problem of the microplastics, the project is also searching for solutions and risk reduction. Caroline De Tender and Lisa Joos of the University of Gent will update you about this important subject during the POPUP Talk. 

Soil health is a theme that is becoming increasingly important! However, our soils have had to endure a lot in recent years: prolonged droughts followed by periods of excessive precipitation, to nutrient shortages and pollution. An important source of pollution that has been receiving more attention last years is plastic. Especially the small fraction of plastics, also called microplastics (< 5 mm). Although research into these microplastics in soils is still in its starting up phase, it has already been shown that they can harm microbial life. It can negatively effect plant growth and can drastically reduce the water balance of the soil. In addition, the soil also plays an important role in the flow of these microplastics to other ecosystems, such as groundwater. In the project MiCoS the focus is on these microplastics. And the following activities are carried out:

1. A risk assessment is developed: how many microplastics are present in the soil; 
2. A risk assessment is carried out: what is the effect of microplastics on soil and plant health and
3. A risk reduction: how can we reduce the amount of microplastics in the soil.

Please also look on the website: https://www.micos.ugent.be/nl for more information about the MiCoS project.

Joining the POPUP Talk?

Want to join the POPUP Talk? Please send us an email: closecycle.nsr@gmail.com.  You will receive the invitation for the Zoom meeting a week before. 

Photos by Lisa Joos