The Aquatic Plastic (AQPLA) project is a collaborative initiative funded under the Interreg Danube Region Programme aimed at significantly reducing plastic pollution in the rivers of the Danube River Basin. The project focuses on mapping micro- and macro-plastic pollution, identifying high-risk leakage points, and developing innovative solutions for measuring, monitoring and managing riverine plastic waste. Using technologies such as remote sensing and artificial barriers like hydroelectric power plants, the project works to divert accumulated plastic from natural waterways toward recycling and waste management pathways.

Bringing together partners from nine countries, Aquatic Plastic also promotes stakeholder engagement, community involvement and knowledge exchange to improve river water quality across the region. Outputs include a comprehensive database and methodology for plastic pollution assessment, a participatory RiverSaver platform, pilot actions in hotspots of waste accumulation, and policy-oriented tools to support updates to river basin management plans. By combining scientific research, innovative technologies, and community activities, the project aims to enhance cooperation and contribute to long-term protection of aquatic ecosystems in the Danube Basin.

 

Basic information

Start date: 01-01-2024

End date: 30-06-2026

Budget in Euro: Overall: 2.166.494

Priority: A greener, low- carbon Danube Region

Specific objective: Sustainable, integrated, transnational water and sediment management in the Danube River Basin

More information is available via the following website: DRP-Aquatic Plastic