4.1 CITIZEN SCIENCE

Citizen communities collect samples in the field to support scientific research.

TRAP is an initiative that combines scientific advancement in marine pollution topics with active societal participation through citizen science. By collecting samples of marine debris, especially microplastics in rivers, beaches, and the sea, citizen scientists coordinated by the University of Barcelona and Plastic At Sea provide high-resolution data that would be inaccessible using conventional scientific methods.

This strategy not only improves the quality of scientific models, but also allows for greater geographical and temporal precision, reduces costs, and encourages social involvement. At the same time, it addresses two key needs: better understanding the transport of plastics in the northwestern Mediterranean coastal region and developing practical tools for more effective marine debris management.

Articles:

Highly engaged marine users can help monitor marine plastic pollution in under accessed environments
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0964569125004466

4.2 LABORATORY

Analysing samples to categorize and build a database

Once collected, scientific samples are analysed in laboratories at the University of Barcelona (UB). Microplastics are extracted, quantified, and classified by size, shape, type, color, chemical composition, and origin. The associated plastisphere—the community of microorganisms living on plastic surfaces—is also studied. All this data is integrated into an open-access database.

4.3 EARTH OBSERVATION

From sky to sea: using technology to track pollution.

The Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) contributes to the TRAP project with its expertise in Earth observation. Using satellite images and water clarity data, researchers track coastal changes, monitor river flows, and pinpoint areas where plastic waste gathers.

This information helps create indirect indicators of floating marine litter along the Mediterranean coast. Additionally, the UPC team deploys coastal buoys that collect real-time data on their location and movement, helping to simulate how floating debris travels.

4.4 NUMERICAL MODEL

Improving predictions using data to optimize numerical simulations

TRAP is developing an advanced numerical model to better predict how marine debris moves across the Western Mediterranean and along local coastlines. This tool uses computer models to simulate water movements and track how floating debris travels. This information will help us understand how coastal currents, the shape of the coastline, and man-made structures affect where marine litter gathers and moves

5. RESULTS

Mapping plastic pollution

By combining satellite images, on-site sampling, and data from coastal buoys with computer simulations, we will create predictive maps showing the main sources of marine litter, the quantities involved, movement routes, and areas where it accumulates along the Western Mediterranean coast. These dynamic maps are valuable tools for prevention, clean-up efforts, and shaping effective public policies.

Equipped with this information, we lay the scientific foundation to inspire understanding, foster discussion, and work towards real solutions for plastic pollution.