The interactive roadmap can be used above or downloaded as a PDF file. Please click on the various interactive elements on page 3 to learn more about the MOMENTUM solution routes.

Micro-and nanoplastics(MNPs, plastic particles < 5 mm) are increasingly found in our environment, our food and our bodies. Though there are still knowledge gaps regarding their potential human health risks, it is clear that strategiesfor mitigating health risks are urgently needed. The Dutch ZonMw/Health Holland project MOMENTUM (2021-2024) aims to unravel the human health effects of MNPs and to propose solutions to minimize their potential health impact.

To create a first version of a roadmap leading to long-term solutions, three main solution routes to minimize the health impact of exposure to MNPs were identified, developed, and refined during sessions with MOMENTUM consortium partners. Solution routes are long-termplans that outline the innovations from MOMENTUM’s scientific achievements and define the major steps, conditions, and requirements for practical solutions to minimize the health impact of MNPs in various real-life situations.

In addition to consolidating the scientific expert knowledge in the MOMENTUM project, international research initiatives likethe European H2020 CUSP projects, were taken into account, along with international private sector initiatives. The ZonMw“Knowledge Agenda on Microplastics and Health” from 2020, commissioned by the Dutch government, was also integrated.

The obtained roadmap is illustrated as an infographic which shows the three solution routes developed in the period 2021-2024. The infographic provides information on the current state of the solution routes and the milestones and collaborative efforts neededto move the solutions forward, as well as indicating knowledge gaps.

During the ongoing project MOMENTUM 2.0, this roadmap will be reviewed and refined, and other solution routes such as social behavior will be included.. Any questions on the infographic can be directed to petra.krystek@deltares.nl and via https://momentummicroplastics.nl/contact/.

Acknowledgement: We gratefully acknowledge financial support from ZonMwand Health Holland [Grant ID 458001101].