Monitoring Beach Litter in the Mediterranean Sea Using the REMEDIES Mobile App

The Mediterranean Sea region's coastal zones are densely populated, with 427 million inhabitants, and attract a significant number of tourists. This high level of human activity, combined with the region's topography and inadequate waste management in many countries, has led to the accumulation of plastic debris in the Mediterranean Sea and its connected rivers. Plastic litter is prevalent in the rivers, on beaches, and in the sea, where it accumulates due to the limited flow to the Atlantic Ocean.

This study aims to address the issue of plastic pollution in the Mediterranean Sea by implementing novel approaches for monitoring and detecting marine litter. The primary objective is to report on the monitoring activities of beach macro litter (>2.5 cm) on six beaches in six Mediterranean countries (Italy, Slovenia, Albania, Greece, Morocco, France) during 2024. Seasonal monitoring was conducted together with volunteers four times per year using the REMEDIES mobile app, in accordance with the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). This app facilitates the collection of data on the localization, types, quantities, materials, and sources of macro litter on beaches, thereby contributing to efforts to mitigate plastic pollution, protect marine life, and preserve the ecological balance in the Mediterranean region.

This comprehensive approach aims to provide a clearer understanding of the extent and sources of plastic pollution, enabling more effective strategies for its reduction and management. By leveraging technology and international collaboration, this study seeks to make a significant impact on the health of the Mediterranean marine environment.

 Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge financial support from the European Union’s HORIZON EUROPE innovation program for the project REMEDIES awarded under Grant Agreement No. 101093964.