Josefine Geiger, Irene Maltagliati and Barbro Melgert receive ZonMW grant to investigate Social Aspects of Microplastics Pollution

Josefine Geiger (Campus Fryslân), Irene Maltagliati (Faculty of Arts & Rudolf Agricola School) and Barbro Melgert (GRIP) have secured a grant of €300,000 for the project from ZonMW ’Microplastics & Citizens.’

Micro- and nano-plastics have permeated our world, contaminating water, air, food, and even making their way into our bodies. Yet, awareness about microplastics and their origins remains remarkably low. Consumers can make a difference in reducing microplastics emissions and exposure via everyday behaviors, from driving styles to food choices.

The primary goal of this grant is to enhance public awareness of microplastics and their origins. The group aims to gain a deeper understanding of current public perceptions regarding microplastics as well as to explore effective strategies for communicating recent scientific breakthroughs and encouraging the adoption of sustainable protective practices.

This project is truly inter- and transdisciplinary. Bringing together researchers from Psychology, Communication Science, and Immunology. Additionally, their extensive valorization panel includes representatives from institutions, companies, research institutes, citizens' organizations and the creative sector.