14 October 2024
During the international workshop “AOMI Database: Enhancing Ocean Microplastics Monitoring”, the OGS, which maintains and develops the EMODnet marine litter database, presented the state of the art in marine litter data management at the European level. The workshop took place online on 8 October and was organised by the Ministry of the Environment, Japan (MOEJ) to show the Atlas of Ocean Microplastics (AOMI). In particular, some specific features and data submission processes were introduced. The AOMI website, launched in May this year, is a database of monitoring and observation data on microplastics in the oceans provided by researchers, research institutes and governments from around the world. Based on the data, this database provides 2D maps of survey points (or locations) and particle density distribution around the globe. The AOMI contains data on field surveys, i.e. data on the methods and conditions used to sample microplastics from the ocean surface, as well as data on laboratory analyses and results, e.g. the use of biological digestion and chemical treatment, methods for counting and measuring particle size, and techniques for identifying microplastics.
For more information on AOMI's services, visit the AOMI website.
The workshop was also an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of monitoring ocean surface plastics and to discuss the current situation. Finally, the workshop introduced related initiatives such as UNEP's Global Partnership on Plastic Pollution and Marine Litter (GPML) and detailed their current activities and tools.
Ayako Inoue from MOEJ thanked Matteo Vinci from OGS for participating in the workshop, which will hopefully enable further collaboration between EMODnet Chemistry and AOMI. The importance of this dialogue, which has been consolidated over the years, was reaffirmed by the MOEJ.
“I am delighted that the MOEJ has invited me to present EMODnet Chemistry at this interesting AOMI workshop.” Matteo Vinci says and continues “I look forward to continuing our collaboration and joint efforts on global marine litter monitoring.”
