- Dona Paula, Goa, India.
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- iiosc2020[at]nio[dot]org
Abstract Submission No. | ABS-2022-09-0467 |
Title of Abstract | India-UK collaboration |
Authors | Dr Danja Hoehn * |
Organisation | Cefas |
Address | Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 0HT Lowestoft, Suffolk, United Kingdom Pincode: 000000 Mobile: 7778463913 E-mail: danja.hoehn@cefas.co.uk |
Country | United Kingdom |
Presentation | Oral |
Abstract | The Centre for Environment Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas) has collaborated with the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) though the Commonwealth Litter Programme (CLiP) since 2019. CLiP brings together scientists, policy makers and communities across the Commonwealth to identify actions which can be taken to tackle marine litter pollution. The collaborative partnership includes knowledge and technology sharing, outreach and education packs, as well as peer-reviewed articles. A microplastic (MP) sampling pump and sensor pack was loaned by Cefas to NCCR, which has been used alongside water quality monitoring to improve the understanding of microplastic abundance and distribution in the Indian Ocean. During a visit to Chennai, Cefas scientists joined NCCR scientists to carry out beach litter monitoring and sampling in Puducherry, with the aim to identify different possible sources of litter which are reaching the marine environment. Training was provided in the use of the MP sampling pump and sensor pack for collection of samples to understand the abundance and distribution of microplastics in the Indian Ocean. Cefas helped with the analysis of microplastic samples (using our microFTIR) for peer-reviewed articles and the development of monitoring programmes. A total of four peer-reviewed articles have been jointly developed on a range of plastic pollution issues which will help to inform policy and management strategies including the Indian Marine Litter Action Plan. CLiP educational packs have been translated and distributed to primary and secondary schools in several regions and will be in incorporated into the curriculum. After the end of CLiP in March 2021, the UK Government has renewed its support to India starting the Ocean Country Partnership Programme (OCPP) under the Blue Planet Fund, which will work on Pollution, Sustainable Seafood and Biodiversity Conservation in South Asia. |