MicBin

Microplastics in the Danube River Basin: Large quantities of plastics enter the oceans through rivers and streams. However, little is known about the occurrence and transport routes in river basins. The joint research project MicBin aims to conduct an initial assessment of the entry points and the fate of plastic particles of different sizes in the German part of the Danube river basin. This study is primarily focusing on the analysis of microplastics: particles less than 5mm in size. The researchers are identifying quantities of microplastics in several Danube tributaries, investigating sources and sinks, and using models to test possible precautionary measures that can reduce the emission of plastic particles into the Danube river basin.