D10 Methodological standards

Methodologies for monitoring and assessment of marine litter are not readily available. They need to be developed, harmonized and implemented.

Marine litter - Options and Recommendations

Following the adoption of the MSFD ComDec 2010/477/EU, the TG Litter has prepared a report on the options for assessing marine litter in the marine environment. This report on options and recommendations was a direct support to the MS implementing the MSFD and the basis for further work of the TG Litter.

Guidance for monitoring

The MSFD Technical Group on Marine Litter has reviewed existing approaches and provides guidance for the monitoring of marine litter. While some methodologies are based on existing approaches, adjusted to MSFD needs, new ones have also been developed:

Monitoring of Litter on beaches 

Monitoring of litter floating in the sea surface layer 

Monitoring of litter on the sea floor 

The monitoring of marine macro litter is based on its identification according to a list of items. The technical group on marine litter has started a joint effort, to review the list, ensuring its compatibility across Europe and beyond.

Monitoring of litter items/particles below 5 mm size

Litter ingested by biota, such Fulmars or turtles and quantified by the analysis of stranded animals.

Monitoring of marine species being entangled by marine litter

Riverine litter

Monitoring of litter entering the marine environment via rivers