Happy World Oceans Day! Today we celebrate the important role our oceans play in our lives. Oceans are the lungs of our planet, a source of food and medicine and an integral part of the biosphere.
The porpuse of this day is to raise awareness about the human impact on oceans and unite people in a project for the sustainable management of our seas. That´s why the United Nations has organyzed a hybrid event today (8th June) with the topic for 2023 “Ocean Planet: The Tides Are Changing.”
The evento is produced by the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea in partnership with Oceanic Global, this year´s anual program will highlight the wonders of ocean as life-supporting source for humanity and all other Earth´s organisms.
In relation to this day, let´s not forget the significant work of the LabPlas project. LabPlas aims to understand the sources, transport, distribution and impacts of plastic pollution across various environmental compartments, including freshwater, marina, terrestrial, atmosphere and aquatic biota.
By using technological advancements in sampling, analysis, quantification and promoting biodegradable materials, LabPlas will contribute to innovative and scalable models fot assessing the fate, effects and risks of plastics. The project will communicate its findings to national and international authorities and industries, supporting decision-making processes.
LabPlas is also focusing on studyng micro and nanoplastics (SMNPs), which are often overlooked in environmental monitoring efforts despite their high potential for organismal update. In addition to polymer research, LabPlas will investigate the chemical additives in plastic objects and evaluate their potential metabollic effects.
The scientific evidence generated by LabPlas will support regulatory efforts and inform consumers within the context of current legislative initiatives like the EU Plastics Strategy and the Plastics Directive (EU 2019/904). By countering misconceptions and dispelling myths about plastic properties, LABPLAS will contribute with solid scientific evidence and innovative technical developments.
Let’s all come together to protect and preserve our oceans, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. Happy World Oceans Day! 🌊🌍 #WorldOceansDay #OceanConservation
