Wootton N, Reis-Santos P, Adyel T, Blewitt M, Clarke B, Crutchett T, Hamann M, Hardesty D, Lavers J, Leterme S, Leusch F, Lynch S, Motti C, O’Brien A, Okoffo E, Perera K, Puskic P, Razzell Holls J, Roman L, Santana MFM, Snigirova A, Tuuri EM, Wilson S, Ziajahromi S, Gillanders BM (2024). Marine sampling field manual for microplastics. In Field Manuals for Marine Sampling to Monitor Australian Waters, Version 3. Przeslawski R, Foster S (Eds). National Environmental Science Program.
Overview
The Microplastics Field Manual is a practical, open-source guide for conducting standardized microplastic sampling in marine environments. It outlines protocols for collecting, processing, and analyzing microplastics from water, sediment, and biota using accessible, low-cost methods. Designed for researchers, educators, and citizen scientists, the manual emphasizes reproducibility, comparability, and environmental stewardship. It includes equipment lists, step-by-step instructions, safety considerations, and data reporting templates. By promoting consistent methodologies across regions and projects, the manual supports global efforts to understand microplastic pollution and inform mitigation strategies.
