In addition, we collaborate with the Consolidated Research Group on Marine Geosciences (http://www.ub.edu/geomarines/) at University of Barcelona to obtain scientific samples of microplastics floating in the sea surface with a specially designed manta trawl.
Despite intensive research efforts during the last years, some fundamental questions remain open such as the precise amount and mass of plastic ítems reaching and floating in the marine system and their variations through space and time. Scientific samples acquired during our training sessions and special events will be analysed to determine abundance and mass, size and shape, and polymer type of microplastics (particles <5 mm) found. Data generated will allow to ultimately assess the potential impact of microplastics to marine life.