Policy Brief - 08 regulatory changes that can make marine litter removal and reintroduction in the economy viable at a large scale

This Policy Brief derives from the joint work of two main EU H2020 co-funded projects under the pilot action for the removal of marine plastics and litter, namely
INNOPLASTIC (Innovative Approaches towards Prevention, Removal and Reuse of Marine Plastic Litter) and MAELSTROM (Smart technology for MArinE LitterSusTainable  RemOval and Management). Our experience in projects aimed at tackling marine litter, supporting a circular economy and producing renewable energy has provided some valuable insights for policy and decision-makers. We are willing to reverse the damage being done and promote a regime shift in the management of plastic pollution. We are keen to change our relationship with the ocean, and with its natural and cultural assets and heritage, for good. In our stances, we are committed to supporting the work of the United Nations Conference on the Ocean, as well as the follow-up work of the UN Resolution to “End Plastic Pollution: Towards an internationally legally binding instrument” with the ambition of completing a draft legally binding global agreement by the end of 2024. We represent research institutes, tech-based companies, industries and NGOs committed to scientifically sound solutions in protecting the oceans from the growing inflow of plastic waste, and to establish it as an ally for energy generation. We are a growing and coordinated movement willing to provide support to the current discussions on the global arena around the ocean.