Microplastics in the environment
Plastic has become an integral part of our everyday life. However, plastic waste, including microplastics, leads to ecological and health problems. Still little is known about the magnitude of the problem. Eawag is therefore investigating the effects of microplastics in water and bodies of water and is developing solutions to reduce microplastic contamination.
There is a lot of plastic waste in the environment and in our waters: beverage bottles, plastic bags, packaging, straws and much more. Less well visible to the naked eye, but nevertheless no less common, are what are known as microplastics. This page provides information about what exactly microplastics are and what quantities occur in Swiss waters.
Publications for practice
Research projects
Network
We work together with a wide variety of partners.
The Centre for Applied Ecotoxicology in Switzerland aims to identify and assess the effects of chemicals on our environment and to develop strategies to minimise risks.
The FOEN Water Division is responsible for the protection of surface water, groundwater and drinking water.
Scientific publications
Cover picture: Close-up of periphyton with plastic particles (Photo: Stephanie Merbt, Eawag).