The REMEDIES project focuses on three key areas: monitoring plastic litter, its collection and valorization, and preventing the spread of non-degradable plastics. It builds on previous projects and collaborates with major initiatives in this field. The project’s most promising aspect is engaging citizens, particularly those on shorelines affected by plastic pollution, and empowering them to become “plastic entrepreneurs.” These individuals will be trained to start businesses by valorizing collected plastic and offering zero-waste solutions. REMEDIES will implement 4 innovations per pillar (monitoring, collection, prevention), tested in 8 demonstration sites across 8 Mediterranean countries.
After validation, the project will expand to 33 more sites, with potential for wider deployment across the Mediterranean. It aims to map 170 km² of plastic litter, reach 100,000 citizens, collect 400 tons of plastic, and create prevention pathways to avoid 3,700 tons of plastic waste. Additionally, two open calls will be held to attract new solutions for the project. REMEDIES is aiming to create a trend of plastic prevention by exploiting traditional and modern channels. With the help of citizen’s science REMEDIES will support the co-creation of participatory processes in order to achieve a more plastic-conscious society.