MAPSS-WG

Microplastics Across Pollution Source Spheres (MAPSS-WG): Uniting science, policy, and communities to tackle plastic pollution for a resilient planet.

MAPSS is an iLEAPS-led global working group focused on building capacity and fostering inclusive engagement to tackle plastic pollution. By connecting scientists, policymakers, industry, and communities, MAPSS works to understand how plastics move through and impact Earth’s systems, and to co-create solutions that protect the environment and human well-being. With a strong commitment to science–policy integration and GESI principles, MAPSS strives to deliver measurable progress towards a plastic-free, resilient planet.

Mission Statement:
To lead and strengthen global collaboration in science, policy, and community action that reduces plastic pollution across Earth’s systems, fostering resilient environments and sustainable futures.


MAPSS Objectives (for reference):
1. Investigate movement and transformation of plastic-related pollutants
Focus on micro- and nanoplastics and associated chemicals (bisphenols, phthalates, styrene), understanding how they move and transform across air, soil, and surface waters, including mixed exposure pathways.

2. Assess how land–atmosphere processes influence pollutant fate
Examine how wind, heatwaves, humidity, rainfall, and land surface cover affect resuspension, deposition, and mobility across different environments.

3. Strengthen monitoring and detection approaches
Promote integrated monitoring through field sampling, mapping, lab analysis, and sensor technologies, including support for citizen science and cost-effective surveillance.

4. Explore the life cycle of plastic pollution
Use systems thinking to identify intervention points from production to disposal, focusing on safer materials, reducing hazardous additives, and advancing circular approaches such as redesign and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

5. Connect science with policy frameworks
Align research with UNEA plastics treaty negotiations, SAICM Beyond 2020, Basel Convention processes, and regional strategies on sustainable, non-toxic materials management.

6. Promote inclusive, cross-disciplinary collaboration
Foster global partnerships across sectors and regions, with emphasis on early-career researchers and Global South participation, grounded in equity and capacity building.
What We Do:
• Lead collaboration between scientists, policymakers, industry, and communities.
• Integrate science and policy to drive evidence-based decisions.
• Promote inclusivity through gender, equity, and social inclusion (GESI).
• Deliver solutions to reduce plastic pollution and protect ecosystems, climate, and health.

Our Goal:
A plastic-free, resilient planet through coordinated global action.

How to get involved: Please email ipo@ileaps.org