Welcome on board with NMRC!

The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) Microplastics Group studies the presence, abundance, distribution and potential ecological risk of microplastic contamination in marine environments, especially tropical ecosystems. Through baseline surveys and long-term monitoring we're investigating the status, trends, sources and fates of microplastic contamination in Queensland’s marine estate and nationally across the Australian Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) National Reference Stations. Through field, aquaria, and laboratory-based activities we're examine physiological and ecological processes of microplastics biological contamination, including the potential health risks to marine species that are valuable ecologically or economically. We're developing field and laboratory methods for collecting and processing samples and data reporting. We're using statistical tools and numerical models to forecast and hindcast microplastic trajectories in oceans and to predict microplastic retention and egestion rates in organisms. Our research follows the AIMS 2030 Research Strategy and aligns with the UN Sustainable Goals ‘12: Responsible consumption and production’ and ‘14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources’.

The NMRC membership affords AIMS entry into a growing network of microplastics researchers and regulatory partners, as well as access to experts and facilities at the cutting edge of microplastic and nanoplastic detection, identification and quantification. We will collaborate with NMRC partners to deliver critical data for improving global management of plastic waste and mitigating plastic pollution.

Cherie Motti, Research Scientist, Tropical Marine Water Quality & Impacts AIMS@JCU Research Director