Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris

Researchers at the Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea are advancing efforts to integrate marine #plasticwaste into urban #recycling systems. Their study examines the feasibility of using automated recycling technology to separate marine plastics, accounting for contamination and degradation. Notably, they found that separating poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) bottles of marine origin is both efficient and effective, marking a significant step toward sustainable #wastemanagement. https://lnkd.in/gnaXq86T?

Following the EU's final approval of the mandatory reuse system under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), set to take effect across 27 member states starting January next year, Oceana has drawn attention to Coca-Cola's recent decision to abandon its voluntary goal of increasing reusable packaging—a stark contrast to the EU's progressive regulatory approach. #plasticpollution https://lnkd.in/g6p66WKk

Vietnam's Sóc Trăng Province is tackling aquaculture plastic waste with a new project led by Evergreen Social Ventures and supported by Dow Vietnam. By creating an efficient system to collect and recycle used shrimp pond liners, the initiative aims to foster a circular economy, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices in local aquaculture. #plasticpollution https://lnkd.in/gRvmRMjM

The EU Environment Council reached a consensus on a new regulation aimed at minimizing plastic pellet losses throughout the supply chain, with a particular focus on maritime transport. This initiative introduces specific measures to enhance the safety of transporting these pellets by sea. Key provisions include ensuring high-quality packaging to prevent spills during accidents, mandating detailed cargo information for better tracking, and enforcing stringent handling and cleaning protocols in the event of spills. The regulation targets operators handling over five tonnes of plastic pellets annually and requires compliance certifications. #plasticpollution https://lnkd.in/g8EHgeKE

The rise of agricultural technologies has increased plastic use, with microplastics from degradation threatening ecosystems. Biodegradable plastics like PBAT (starch-polybutylene adipate terephthalate) offer alternatives, but their effects on soil remain unclear. A recent study found that high concentrations of PBAT #microplastics negatively impacted lettuce growth and induced changes in its defence mechanism. Further research is needed to understand #bioplastics' environmental impacts on plants. https://lnkd.in/gVWpEbg5

🌟 Exciting Career Opportunities at ERIA! 🌟 Are you ready to shape policies that drive sustainable growth and resilience across ASEAN and East Asia? ERIA is seeking talented individuals to lead groundbreaking research and provide policy advice in these dynamic areas: 🔍 (Senior) Economist/Policy Analyst Conduct cutting-edge research on macroeconomic, fiscal, and public policy in East Asia and ASEAN. Provide actionable insights to governments and stakeholders. 🔍 (Senior) Economist/Policy Analyst – Human Capital Development Advance policy solutions for education and workforce development. Drive impactful strategies to empower communities across Asia. 🔍 (Senior) Economist/Policy Analyst – Climate Finance and Carbon Pricing Develop innovative policies on climate finance, carbon pricing, and transition finance. Lead efforts towards a greener, more resilient future. 🔍 (Senior) Policy Fellow – Policy Design and Operation Lead high-quality research and provide strategic policy advice for ASEAN and Emerging Asia. Foster collaboration with policymakers and develop actionable policy frameworks for sustainable growth. 🔍 Research Associate – Marine Plastic Debris Support research on marine plastic pollution in ASEAN+3 countries. Collect data, conduct analyses, and promote solution-driven initiatives for a cleaner marine environment. Apply now via bit.ly/ERIAcareer by 26 December 2024. Join us in crafting policies that transform the region and the world. 🌏✨ #ERIA #ASEAN #CareerOpportunity #NowHiring #NGOVacancy #LowonganNGO Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris

A recent study by Tokyo University of Science researchers analyzed plastic litter recovery from 109 Japanese river basins between 2016 and 2020. The research found that annual plastic recovery averaged 938 tons, representing 5–10% of Japan's estimated annual plastic emissions. The study also highlighted that natural disasters and extreme weather events are correlated with significant increases in plastic waste collected from affected river systems. #plasticpollution https://lnkd.in/g-D6986S

The Regional Knowledge Centre is thrilled to launch Beyond the Business, a new article series uncovering the human stories behind innovative businesses tackling #plasticpollution in the region. In the first edition, we sit down with Ernest Christian Layman, CEO and co-founder of Rekosistem, an Indonesia-based startup revolutionizing plastic reduction and #wastemanagement, to explore the inspiring journey behind the company—and address the big question: Can Environmental Impact and Business Sustainability Go Hand in Hand? Enjoy the read! https://lnkd.in/gqqSwJNF

Ocean resources like seaweed, invasive species, and marine plastic debris such as abandoned fishing nets, are replacing traditional materials like yarns, leathers, and plastics in the fashion industry. Although not historically eco-conscious, the industry is evolving as innovative businesses transform these resources into sustainable products, giving new value to potential pollutants. Discover how private sector innovations are shaping a more sustainable future for fashion. https://lnkd.in/gFZgu4iF

Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment (KLH) is cracking down on illegal and non-compliant waste disposal sites, following Minister Nurofiq’s letter to 306 regional heads warning against open dumping, which is banned under Law No. 18 of 2008. Violators face legal consequences. KLH is also enforcing producer responsibility for packaging waste and prohibiting plastic waste imports for recycling materials. https://lnkd.in/g4wYuVnc