From monitoring to mitigation: A practical roadmap for cities to reduce local riverine litter pollution
Developed as a key outcome of the Circular Ocean-bound Plastic project, this publication translates the project’s research, monitoring data and practical experience into an actionable roadmap for reducing plastic pollution in and around urban rivers. It is designed for municipalities, harbour operators, waste management companies, NGOs and other local stakeholders seeking effective measures that can be adapted to their own context.
The roadmap guides readers through six practical steps: identifying litter hotspots, understanding sources and pathways, selecting suitable measures, assessing feasibility and responsibilities, implementing actions, and monitoring their impact. It also presents a range of best-practice examples—from reusable deposit systems and targeted cigarette-butt initiatives to floating collection technologies and stakeholder action plans.
Rather than proposing a one-size-fits-all solution, the publication helps cities match the right measures to the right problems. Its central message is simple: lasting change requires evidence-based action, a strong focus on prevention and solutions that can realistically be maintained over time.
The roadmap is relevant for municipalities, ports, waste management companies, businesses, NGOs, researchers and everyone working to prevent plastic pollution from reaching rivers, the Baltic Sea and beyond.
Download the roadmap below: