REcycled Plastics in freshwaters: TOXicity and uptake in macroinvertebrates (RE-TOX)

Comparative Toxicity of different Recycled Microplastic Types on Freshwater Organisms

Abstract

Recycled plastics are expected to become increasingly prevalent in the environment. The project aims to assess the different impacts of recycled microplastics, UV-photodegraded plastics and end-of-life products on stream macroinvertebrates.

Content

In the near future, the environmental presence of recycled microplastics is set to increase significantly. Despite this, studies verifying their toxicity compared to non-recycled plastics are notably scarce. Furthermore, the diverse recycling and regeneration techniques yield various plastic products with unique characteristics, which could impact aquatic organisms through unexplored pathways.

Our project seeks to bridge these crucial information gaps. We will assess the toxicity, ingestion, and degradation of microplastics (e.g. r-PET and r-Nylon) obtained from different recycling processes (e.g. thermomechanical and chemical) using stream macroinvertebrates, encompassing both a lab-cultivated model species (Chironomus riparius) and wild populations. Macroinvertebrates will be exposed also to UV-photodegraded microplastics and end-of-life plastic products.

Our findings will offer fundamental insights into the environmental safety of recycled materials, ultimately informing future policies and industrial practices

Why This Research Matters: Driving Change and increasing awareness

Practical insights: We’ll produce cutting-edge scientific publications and reports designed to equip policymakers and industries with the data needed for informed decisions.
Community and Business Growth: Through direct collaboration, we’ll help local businesses elevate their recycling standards, benefiting both the environment and the local economy.
Holistic Understanding: By uniquely integrating laboratory experiments with observations in authentic river environments, we’ll gain an unparalleled, nuanced view of microplastic behaviour and effects.

Key Research Goals

Understand Toxicity Differences: Uncover how the toxicity of different types of recycled microplastics
Quantify Ingestion: Measure how readily different plastic compositions are ingested by freshwater macroinvertebrates
Clarify Degradation Roles: Assess the specific part freshwater macroinvertebrates play in breaking down microplastics to nanoplastics.