SeaClear2.0- Scalable Full-cycle Marine Litter Remediation in the Mediterranean: Robotic and Participatory Solutions

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Narrative

The SeaClear2.0 project aims to address the pervasive issue of marine litter in the Mediterranean and contribute to the Mission of restoring, protecting, and preserving the health of our oceans, seas, and waters by 2030. The project takes a holistic approach, focusing on the full cycle of marine litter, particularly plastics and microplastics. It aims to prevent and reduce marine litter pollution through community activation, citizen empowerment, and participatory practices for identifying site-specific measures. The project also develops and scales up the SeaClear2.0 system, which utilizes teams of autonomous, intelligent robots for monitoring and collecting marine seafloor and surface litter. Additionally, the project aims to provide solutions for the valorisation of collected litter through improved sorting and recycling methods. It also contributes to policymaking by providing evidence for new legislation and the implementation of existing rules to achieve Good Environmental Status. SeaClear2.0 will demonstrate the scalability and replicability of its solutions through full-scale demonstrations, pilot tests, and associated-region projects.

Financial data

Total Eligible Budget: €9,086,305.00, EU Contribution: €7,971,863.50, EU Funding Percentage: 87.9%

Recommendations

• Implement comprehensive public engagement programs to raise awareness about marine litter pollution and promote citizen involvement in prevention and reduction efforts.

• Encourage citizen participation through the development of a user-friendly, gamified mobile application for data collection, reporting of litter hotspots, and tracking clean-up progress.

• Continuously improve the SeaClear2.0 robotic system for efficient monitoring and collection of marine litter, leveraging advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, and marine technology.

• Explore innovative methods for sorting, recycling, and valorising collected marine litter, collaborating with recycling industries and waste management organizations.

• Advocate for stronger regulations and policies addressing marine litter, providing evidence-based recommendations, and collaborating with policymakers and stakeholders

• Foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnerships with other initiatives and organizations working on marine litter remediation to amplify impact and share best practices.