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  • General publications
  • Directorate-General for Environment

A frequently asked questions document on the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation.

Plastic pollution can absorb other environmental contaminants in marine environments
  • Academic journal
  • Sourav Bar, corresponding author Sudipta Kumar Ghorai

Plastics in the environment form new conformations as they fuse with rock, sand or organic materials. These are called plastiglomerates. An Indian study found that the microplastiglomerates (the microscopic version) can absorb contaminants, such as heavy metals, in the ocean.

Bacteria found in fermented foods like kimchi can effectively absorb nanoplastics
  • Academic journal
  • Jisu Lee, corresponding author Tae Woong Whon

We need effective ways to remove nanoplastics present in food chains and ecosystems. This study investigates the food-fermenting bacterium Leuconostoc mesenteroides as a method of removing nanoplastics, finding that it functions well as a nanoplastic absorber under simulated intestinal conditions.

Barnacles can act as sentinels of microplastic pollution
  • Academic journal
  • Victor Vasques Ribeiro

Monitoring microplastic pollution is important but challenging. This review of fourteen studies across seven countries shows that barnacles can serve as indicators of microplastic pollution levels in their local environment.

Ornamental plants in urban spaces offer multiple environmental benefits
  • Academic journal
  • Rizwan Ali, corresponding author Jianv Liu

Ornamental plants provide multiple environmental benefits, including cleaning up our soil, water and air (‘phytoremediation’). This study reviews their phytoremediation role, highlighting how their ability to capture carbon and clean pollutants can support net zero and pollution reduction targets.

  • Staff working document
  • Directorate-General for Environment

This document provides recommendations, illustrative examples and a methodological framework to support the development and management of sustainable tourism and recreational activities within and around Natura 2000 sites.