An Introduction

The Southeast Asian region is at the center of growing concerns surrounding the use and disposal of plastics, particularly in relation to their impact on ecosystems and human health. One of the emerging and less understood issues is the transport of atmospheric microplastics, which could play a crucial role in connecting urban areas and waste disposal sites to coastal and marine environments.

This project seeks to explore the variety, traits, origins, and movement of microplastics in various coastal environments across Southeast Asia. By examining the relationship between atmospheric microplastics and surface seawater samples, we hope to gain a better understanding of how coastal environments influence, or are influenced by, airborne microplastics.

The findings from this research are expected to provide important insights into cross-country comparisons of microplastic types, levels, and sources, ultimately helping to address the issue of plastic pollution on a regional scale.

This project, funded by the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research under the Collaborative Regional Research Programme (CRRP), brings together researchers from Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan. Our mission is to tackle the sustainability and global change challenges posed by microplastic pollution in Southeast Asia's coastal environments.

The main objective is to assess the type, level, and source of microplastic pollution in air and surface seawater samples. Through this scientific evidence, the project aims to:

• Provide a foundation for environmental education.

• Assess the potential risks of microplastics to ecosystems and human health.

• Support science-based decision-making for policy and community-level action.

  
  

In addition, the project will harmonize and intercompare data across nations, ensuring a uniform approach to analyzing microplastics. The establishment of a pilot network of researchers will also enhance capacity-building and contribute to regional solutions for microplastic pollution.

Project Objectives and Summary

The project consists of multiple phases and activities designed to meet its objectives. These activities involve researchers from Southeast Asian countries who collaborate to gather, analyze, and interpret microplastic data in coastal environments.

Here's an outline of the key project activities and timeline:

1. Establishing the Pilot Network:

   • Researchers from Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan will come together to develop a framework for sampling and analyzing microplastics in air and seawater.

   • Training workshops will be conducted to standardize methods across countries.

2. Field Sampling and Data Collection:

   • Microplastic samples will be collected from selected coastal regions in Southeast Asia, focusing on both air and surface seawater.

   • Data on the variety, traits, and levels of microplastics will be gathered, and cross-country comparisons will be made.

3. Data Analysis and Interpretation:

   • Scientists will work on identifying the sources and pathways of microplastics using the collected data.

   • Results will be shared with local communities and stakeholders to inform policies and create awareness.

4. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing:

   • Training programs will be held to enhance the skills of local researchers and policymakers.

   • Regional workshops will facilitate knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving.

5. Final Report and Policy Recommendations:

   • The project will culminate in a final report, summarizing findings and providing science-based recommendations to policymakers.

   • The pilot network is expected to continue fostering regional collaboration for future microplastic monitoring efforts.

The timeline for the project spans over two years, with key milestones expected at each phase, including the completion of sampling, analysis, and reporting.