Marine and coastal pollution: plastics, micropollutants and PFAS
About this expertise
In short- Pollution by plastics
- Chemical pollution (PFAS and other substances)
- Effects on nature & food chain
- Monitoring & detection technology
- Research methods
Pollution is a growing threat to marine ecosystems. WUR studies the distribution and effects of plastics, micropollutants and PFAS in marine and coastal areas. With that knowledge, we help create an understanding of how pollution evolves and its impact on ecosystems and the food chain.
WUR studies the amount and distribution of plastic waste in the sea, and the consequences. A well-known example is the long-term study of petrels in the North Sea: the amount of plastic in their stomachs shows the degree of pollution. This data provides input for European environmental assessments and policies aimed at reducing plastic waste.
Chemicals such as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are also a growing environmental problem. These water, grease and dirt repellents are used in numerous products, from rainwear to firefighting foams. They are virtually non-biodegradable. WUR studies their distribution in water, sediment and food chains. The Western Scheldt is an important research area for these studies.
Plastics and other chemicals affect the behaviour, reproduction and health of marine animals and can also reach humans through the food chain. WUR maps these risks with field measurements, laboratory studies and models. The knowledge supports environmental assessments, food safety studies and sustainable management of coastal and marine areas.
More information
To detect contamination early, WUR develops innovative analytical techniques. High-resolution mass spectrometry identifies specific PFAS compounds, while new rapid tests can detect their presence in water. For plastic pollution, we use distribution models and indicator species such as petrels.
Our approach combines:
- Fieldwork in coastal and delta ecosystems
- Analysis of biota and sediment on plastics and chemicals
- Mass spectrometry and detection technology for PFAS
- Long-term monitoring with indicator species such as petrels
- Models for distribution and risk analysis
Get inspired
Related products and services (3)
Get in touch with our expert
Are you involved in environmental management, water quality or marine research? Contact our expert for collaboration or more information.
dr. S (Susanne) Kühn
Researcher Marine Ecology