The Caribbean Microplastics problem; harmonization of protocols through the IAEA.

Microplastic pollution is a growing environmental concern in the Caribbean, threatening both marine biodiversity and human health. In response, regional efforts have been intensifying to monitor and mitigate the impact of microplastics on the region's ecosystems. A significant initiative in this regard is the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) NUTEC Plastics project, which aims to enhance the capacity of Caribbean countries to monitor microplastics and harmonize protocols for data collection and analysis. The NUTEC Plastics project, launched in 2020, is part of a broader international effort to combat plastic pollution using nuclear technology and isotopic techniques. By incorporating innovative nuclear and analytical techniques, the project enables more precise monitoring of microplastic sources, pathways, and accumulation in marine ecosystems. Prior to the initiative, a lack of standardized methodologies made it difficult to compare data across countries, hampering efforts to assess the true extent of microplastic contamination.

Progress in the harmonization of protocols has been notable. Workshops, training programs, and collaborative research efforts have been organized to build capacity and foster knowledge sharing among Caribbean countries. At a recent Technical Cooperation Regional Meeting for the Harmonization of Operational Protocols for the Collection, Identification and Counting of Microplastics in Beach Sands and Seawater in Monaco, from 14 to 18 October 2024, nine countries (Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Belize, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines and Trinidad & Tobago) gathered to discuss and standardize the methodologies for determining the abundance of MPs in beach sand and marine waters with a size range from 300 μm to 5 mm.  Training in sample collection, field protocols and laboratory processing exercises was conducted for beach sands and coastal waters. As a result, several nations now have improved technical expertise in microplastics sampling, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation. Additionally, the IAEA has facilitated the procurement of standardized microplastics detection kit for each country and the creation of a regional database for microplastics, which will allow for real-time data sharing and informed decision-making in environmental management. Continued training is planned at the Centre for Marine Sciences of the University of the West Indies Mona Campus for July 2025 where increased numbers of countries and participants are anticipated. Overall, the IAEA NUTEC Plastics project has played a crucial role in strengthening the Caribbean's ability to monitor microplastic pollution. Through the harmonization of monitoring protocols and capacity-building initiatives, the project is enhancing regional cooperation and enabling a more coordinated response to the growing challenge of plastic pollution in the Caribbean.