The presence of micro- and nanoplastics in the environment is now recognised as one of the most complex challenges facing the scientific community and society as a whole. These particles, generated by the fragmentation of plastic materials, are now widespread across all environmental compartments: marine and inland waters, soil, sediments, the atmosphere and even polar regions. Their ubiquity and potential impact on living organisms require an integrated approach involving chemistry, biology, environmental sciences, medicine, engineering and public policy. With the aim of providing an up-to-date and multidisciplinary overview of this issue, the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei has organised a conference dedicated to the traceability, impacts and mitigation strategies for micro- and nanoplastics, bringing together researchers, institutions and representatives from the manufacturing sector.
The scientific sessions explored three major thematic areas in depth. The first concerned the traceability and metrology of micro- and nanoplastics, a field that forms the basis for any environmental and health assessment. Significant progress was presented in the development of advanced analytical techniques, such as Raman and FTIR microspectroscopy, the use of innovative approaches based on optical and acoustic trapping, and the introduction of certified reference materials to ensure data comparability. There was a strong consensus on the need for shared definitions, harmonised protocols and standardised monitoring systems, which are essential for producing reliable data that can be used for regulatory purposes.
The second session examined the environmental and health impacts of micro- and nanoplastics. The presentations illustrated how these particles interact with marine, lacustrine and polar ecosystems and how such substances can be released during degradation processes. Studies were presented on the effects on aquatic organisms, the formation of eco-coronas, microbial biodiversity associated with plastic surfaces, and possible implications for the food chain. Particular attention was paid to remote areas, where the presence of microplastics demonstrates the ability of these particles to be transported over long distances via the atmosphere and ocean currents. Emerging evidence regarding human exposure was also discussed, with contributions focusing on the presence of microplastics in biological matrices and potential health risks.
The third session focused on mitigation strategies, a rapidly evolving field involving research, industry and environmental policy. Solutions were presented based on biodegradable and recyclable polymers, filtration and separation technologies, innovative approaches such as the use of microrobots to capture microplastics in water, and industrial initiatives to reduce the dispersion of pellets throughout the production chain. It became clear that combining technological innovation, good industrial practices and regulatory measures is essential to tackle the problem at source, reducing leakage and improving the management of plastic materials.
The poster session played a central role in the conference, bringing together contributions from numerous Italian and international research groups. The presentations covered a wide range of topics: exposure protocols for ecotoxicological testing, analysis of additives released from plastics, molecular models of polymers, impacts on water and the atmosphere, dielectrophoresis and Raman spectroscopy techniques for traceability, studies on lake ecosystems, the formation of eco-crowns, the presence of microplastics in human tissues, workplace emissions and potential international regulatory implications. The session highlighted the vitality of research in this sector and provided an important opportunity for young researchers to engage with one another, fostering the exchange of ideas and the emergence of new collaborations.
The programme also included an introductory tutorial on the industrial production of polymers, recycling and biodegradable materials, which provided an overview of the main types of plastics, production processes and the prospects for polymers derived from renewable sources. The concluding round table brought together representatives from academia, research and industry to discuss priorities for Italy and Europe, highlighting the need for coordinated policies, investment in research and ongoing dialogue between the scientific community and the manufacturing sector.