New International Project Focuses on Microplastic Monitoring with the Participation of MARE-Madeira

MARE has a new international project, IMPLAMAC_CAP_2CAP, which includes the participation of MARE‑Madeira. Co‑funded by the INTERREG MAC 2021–2027 Programme, this initiative builds on the results of the previous IMPLAMAC project (2014–2020) and aims to strengthen technical and institutional capacities for monitoring and managing microplastic pollution in coastal areas.

IMPLAMAC_CAP_2CAP seeks to consolidate a Macaronesian regional observatory, automate analytical processes using digital technologies and artificial intelligence, and train technicians and researchers across the participating regions. The project also aims to promote the transfer of scientific knowledge into public policies and environmental education.

Coordinated by the Universidad de La Laguna, the international consortium includes institutions from the Canary Islands, Azores, Madeira, Cape Verde and Senegal. Collaboration between these European and African regions is essential to addressing shared environmental challenges.

In Madeira, ARDITI, through MARE‑Madeira, will play a key role in implementing the project’s methodology, which includes sampling campaigns, laboratory strengthening and training activities. With a total budget of €899,587.71, of which €764,649.55 comes from financial support, IMPLAMAC_CAP_2CAP is positioned to bring significant innovation to microplastic monitoring.

The public session featured contributions from João Canning‑Clode (MARE‑Madeira/ARDITI), the Regional Director for Environment and Sea, Manuel Ara Oliveira, and Javier Hernández Borges, the project’s Principal Investigator.

For more information, visit the project website.

IMPLAMAC_CAP_2CAP represents an important step forward for environmental research and management in Macaronesia, highlighting Madeira’s active role in ocean protection and scientific advancement.

Text: Zara Teixeira

Image: João Canning-Clode