ISOF and the University of Ferrara signed recently a collaboration agreement to study new methods to produce plastic, and to reduce plastic pollution in the oceans.
Plastic pollution is a significant threat to the environment and to human health; in particular, oceans are polluted by tons of small plastic debris with size below 5 mm (microplastic), which are difficult to remove.
To stop this dangerous pollution, we should find ways to reduce/remove micoplastics, as example using more sustainable and degradable polymers.
The research collaboration between ISOF and the Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB) of the University of Ferrara will target:
- the characterization and chemical modification of synthetic and natural polymers,
- the identification of microplastics in marine waters and
- the study of the effects of environmental pollutants (microplastics, bioplastics, xenobiotics, emerging contaminants) on the physiology and behavior of fish and aquatic invertebrates.
The research work will be performed at SVeB with the support of ISOF personnel and instruments.
