Cycling in the Plastisphere

The biogeochemical fate of marine (micro)plastics

Marine plastic pollution is a global challenge demanding assessment of environmental impact and development of sustainable practice moving forward. 

Microbial cells and minerals found on polyester fiber after exposure to water from the Øresund.

Biofilm observed on marine plastic pollution implies that a new ecological niche, the Plastisphere, has formed with the introduction of this man-made material to the environment. Here, we focus on the biogeochemical cycling associated with this marine plastic debris. We explore how microbes degrade, transport and incorporate (micro)plastic into biogeochemical cycles via microbial community studies, biofilm imaging, as well as isotope and element analysis both in the field and in the laboratory.

This project is funded by the VILLUM FONDEN Young Investigator Programme. VILLUM FONDEN is part of THE VELUX FOUNDATIONS.

Field sampling
Field sampling

FUNDINGthe VILLUM FONDEN Young Investigator Programme. VILLUM FONDEN is part of THE VELUX FOUNDATIONS.

This project is funded by the VILLUM FONDEN Young Investigator Programme.
VILLUM FONDEN is part of THE VELUX FOUNDATIONS.

Projekt: Cycling in the Plastisphere: the biogeochemical fate of marine (micro)plastics
Periode:  May 2017 - May 2023

Contact

Nicole R. Posth
Assistant Professor, VILLUM Young Investigator

Tel: +45 35 33 42 77
E-mail: nrep@ign.ku.dk