About MARLISCO

WHY IS MARINE LITTER A PROBLEM?

Marine Litter – any persistent manufactured or processed solid material that is discarded, disposed or abandoned in the marine and coastal environment – is globally recognised as an emerging threat to the environment, human health and safety, as well as livelihoods.

Marine litter originates from various land- and sea-based sources. It is a complex and challenging problem, which stems from the prevailing production and consumption patterns, and from how we deal with waste.

WHAT IS THE GOAL OF MARLISCO?

MARLISCO’ s overarching goal is to raise public awareness, facilitate dialogue and promote co-responsibility among the different actors towards a joint vision for the sustainable management of marine litter across all European seas.

WHERE DOES MARLISCO TAKE PLACE?

MARLICO activities take place in the four European Regional Seas: North-East Atlantic, Baltic, Mediterranean and Black Sea, by a consortium with members located in 15 coastal countries.

HOW WILL MARLISCO ACHIEVE ITS GOALS?

By developing innovative mechanisms and tools, MARLISCO aims to effectively engage, inform and empower society, reaching the widest possible audience. Its activities include:

A scoping study of the sources and trends regarding marine litter in each Regional Sea.

A collection of best practices from all partner countries.

A survey on the prevailing perceptions and attitudes of different stakeholders regarding marine litter.

A European video contest for youngsters to collect their visions on the issue of marine litter and empower them as agents of change in society.

National debates in 12 partner countries.

Diversified, tailor-made national activities including exhibitions, workshops, festivals, clean ups, etc.