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The presence of microplastics (MPs) in species of commercial interest is well reported. This work is a follow up of that carried out by Martinelli et al 2021, in which among others 11 individuals of Norway lobster sampled in the Off Ancona study area (Adriatic Sea) were found to be contaminated by MPs in gut, hepatopancreas and muscular edible part (tail). In this new trial, 4 lobsters from the same study area were analysed considering 3 different anatomical compartments: hepatopancreas, tail and claw. To evaluate external contamination during samples preparation, procedural blanks were processed. The entire hepatopancreas was extracted from the animal in a protected environment. This time only a dissected portion of the tail muscle was used for the analysis (without exoskeleton), while one claw per individual was accurately washed with MillQ water before being processed (muscle together with exoskeleton). The analyses showed that the hepatopancreas of all individuals were contaminated by a total of 14 MP particles, in shape of both fibers and fragments, ranging from 50 to 300 μm and consisting in 4 different polymers (Polycaprolactone, Polyester, Polyethylene, Polypropylene). MPs ranging from 20 to 50 μm were found in all the 4 analysed portions of tail muscles: in total 7 fragments consisting in 5 different polymers (Polyvinylchloride, Polyester, Polyethylene terephthalate, Polypropylene and Polyurethane). In the claw samples, only 1 fragment of Polyester and 1 of Polyethylene were found in two different individuals among the 4 analysed. Concerning the hepatopancreas, the main difference with the previous study is a much lower incidence of MP fragments ranging from 50 to 100 μm. The results for tail muscles are not comparable between the two studies considering the different amount of tissue analysed, however MPs were found again in all the new samples, thus confirming their presence in edible tissues. Also see: https://micro2022.sciencesconf.org/426846/document, In MICRO 2022, Online Atlas Edition: Plastic Pollution from MACRO to nano

Given the increasing attention on the occurrence of microplastics in the environment, and the potential envi-ronmental threats they pose, there is a need for researchers to move quickly from basic understanding to applied science that supports decision makers in finding feasible mitigation measures and solutions. At the same time, they must provide sufficient, accurate and clear information to the media, public and other relevant groups (e.g., NGOs). Key requirements include systematic and coordinated research efforts to enable evidence-based decision making and to develop efficient policy measures on all scales (national, regional and global). To achieve this, collaboration between key actors is essential and should include researchers from multiple disciplines, policy-makers, authorities, civil and industry organizations, and the public. This further requires clear and informative communication processes, and open and continuous dialogues between all actors. Cross-discipline dialogues between researchers should focus on scientific quality and harmonization, defining and accurately communi-cating the state of knowledge, and prioritization of topics that are critical for both research and policy, with the common goal to establish and update action plans for holistic benefit. In Norway, cross-sectoral collaboration has been fundamental in supporting the national strategy to address plastic pollution. Researchers, stakeholders and the environmental authorities have come together to exchange knowledge, identify knowledge gaps, and set targeted and feasible measures to tackle one of the most challenging aspects of plastic pollution: microplastic. In this article, we present a Norwegian perspective on the state of knowledge on microplastic research efforts. Norway’s involvement in international efforts to combat plastic pollution aims at serving as an example of how key actors can collaborate synergistically to share knowledge, address shortcomings, and outline ways forward to address environmental challenges. publishedVersion

Doctoral thesis (PhD) - Nord University, 2021