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Every Sample Contaminated: New Research Reveals the Scale of Microplastic Pollution in Lithuania
Oceans and seas across the globe are facing growing pollution, particularly from plastic waste. In Lithuania, however, the extent of this issue has not been well understood—until recently. A newly implemented project has opened the door to more effective monitoring and management of marine litter
Plastic waste makes up the majority of marine litter and degrades very slowly. Over time, it breaks down into tiny particles known as microplastics, which pose a growing threat to ecosystems and human health. These microscopic plastic particles are found not only floating on the water’s surface but also accumulating on the seafloor and in beach sand.
Studies indicate that plastic accounts for 80–85% of all micro-litter, with its particles detected at various levels of the marine food chain—from tiny zooplankton to large marine mammals. Despite the severity of this issue, Lithuania had long lacked systematic data on micro-litter pollution in its waters. Previous research was only conducted sporadically, and no official monitoring programme for marine litter existed in the country.
A Step Toward Better Monitoring
Sandra Remeikienė, Deputy Director of the Central Project Management Agency (CPVA), highlights that the recently implemented Marine Litter Monitoring project marks a significant step toward understanding and addressing this problem.
"This project brings Lithuania closer to tackling marine pollution. For the first time, we now have a comprehensive methodology and data that allow us to accurately assess pollution levels in the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon, making it possible to take targeted action," says Remeikienė.
Laura Lauciūtė, a senior specialist at the Environmental Protection Agency’s Hydrological Research Department, emphasizes that the project has developed methodological guidelines that serve as a key tool for monitoring micro-litter in Lithuania’s waters.
"As part of this project, we created methodologies for sampling micro-litter in the waters and sediments of the Baltic Sea, the Curonian Lagoon, and rivers. To ensure the best results, we relied on practical experience, scientific studies, and recommendations from the European Commission’s working group," notes Lauciūtė.
These new methodologies were developed with funding from the Norwegian Financial Mechanism programme Environment, Energy, and Climate Change, under the supervision of CPVA.
Alarming Research Findings
Research conducted using these newly developed methodologies has yielded shocking results. The findings reveal that 97% of detected micro-litter consists of synthetic fibers—most likely originating from textiles, fishing nets, or synthetic clothing. This highlights the impact of everyday human activities on environmental pollution.
"However, the most unexpected and concerning discovery is that out of the 651 samples analyzed, every single one contained microplastic," adds Lauciūtė.
The project not only provided valuable insights into micro-litter pollution but also underscored the need for further research and monitoring. Based on these findings, Lithuania’s national monitoring programme for the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon has been expanded to include additional components. Future research is also planned for rivers and wastewater systems to gain a deeper understanding of microplastic pollution and its effects on Lithuania’s aquatic ecosystems.
"Our goal is not only to improve awareness of marine pollution but also to develop practical solutions that help reduce it. I believe that the results of this project will contribute to creating a healthier environment, both in Lithuania and across the Baltic Sea region," concludes Remeikienė.
The communication campaign marking the end of the 2014-2021 Norwegian Financial Mechanism Programme "Environment, Energy, Climate Change" was initiated by the CPVA. The aim of the campaign is to highlight the programme’s achievements in improving Lithuania's ecosystems and reducing the negative effects of pollution. The campaign is funded by the Norwegian Financial Mechanism.