Macro-Litter on the Belgian beaches

This application presents data on marine litter collected through the Proper Strand Lopers citizen science initiative as part of the VOOS (Voor Onze Oostendse Stranden) project. This initiative is an integral component of Belgium's Action Plan on Marine Litter, aimed at tackling marine pollution through prevention, monitoring, and clean-up efforts, in line with the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

The platform provides valuable insights into the types and distribution of litter along the Belgian coastline, collected by dedicated citizen surveyors. The data is essential for supporting evidence-based actions and policies that align with the Action Plan's goals of reducing litter at its source, enhancing waste management, increasing public awareness, and improving scientific understanding of marine litter trends.

By making this data accessible, the website serves as a vital resource for researchers, policymakers, and the public to analyse and interpret litter distributions and trends over time. This initiative not only supports efforts to protect our coastal ecosystems but also strengthens Belgium's role in international marine conservation.