World Oceans Day: In Search of Lost Microplastics

On June 8, we celebrate World Oceans Day, an essential date to draw global attention to the oceans' importance and the need to use their resources sustainably.

Although many countries have already celebrated this date since 1992, when it was proposed during the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, the United Nations General Assembly made June 8 official as World Oceans Day only in 2008. The first official celebration took place in 2009.

In 2024, the theme is 'Catalyzing Action for Our Ocean and Climate,' a call to action that empowers organizations and individuals worldwide, including aquariums, museums, science centres, research units, NGOs, and governments. The Portuguese Biosphere Reserves are part of this global movement, inviting you to join the 'In Search of Lost Microplastics' challenge.

One of the most pressing issues our oceans face is pollution from plastics and microplastics (tiny plastic pieces less than 5 mm). These microplastics are pervasive, contaminating diverse marine ecosystems. The urgency to reduce their presence and usage is paramount to prevent their persistence in the environment and the exacerbation of this situation.

In this sense, we challenge the entire population to collect microplastics, focusing on plastic pellets (small spheres). Become a citizen scientist and help us map and identify these microplastics on our coast!