Study on the generation of microplastics in children’s and consumer goods – MICRO4CHILD

One of the key objectives for 2030 in the new Circular Economy Action Plan adopted by the European Commission is to reduce the microplastics released into the environment by 30%.

The presence of microplastics in the environment is a real problem due to their persistence. They are present in all types of habitats, mainly oceans and rivers, which has allowed their presence in the food chain, also posing a growing health concern. There is still a great deal of ignorance regarding the origin of these microplastics.

However, does the regular use of consumer products generate microplastics that are released into the environment, and can we contribute in any way to reduce the release of microplastics into the environment?

We have created a method for determining the generation of microplastics by simulating the wear and tear processes that consumer products undergo during their regular use.

The results of the research will provide knowledge on the generation of microplastics during the regular use of consumer products, which will support the sustainability policy of companies in the Valencian Community and, by extension, the European sustainability and circular economy policy.

The Micro4Child project is developed by AIJU with the collaboration of the companies COLORTEC QUÍMICA, VICAM TOYS and ALBERO FORTE COMPOSITE. In addition, this project is supported by the Department of Innovation, Industry, Trade and Tourism of the Generalitat Valenciana, through IVACE, and is funded by the European Union, through the ERDF Program of the Valencian Community 2021-2027.

Micro4child, “determination of microplastics generation during the use of children’s products”

Start date: 01/02/2024
Duration: 17 months
Status: Initiated

COORDINATOR CONTACT

Name: Sandra Segura
Telephone: 965554475
E-mail: sandrasegura@aiju.es

Linked to the smart specialisation strategy line S3: Green and Sustainable Transition