D7.1 Creation and Operationalization of a thematic Working Group on Marine Litter and Plastic Strategy

This document describes MAELSTROM's efforts to facilitate collaboration, share knowledge, and build an informed discourse around the issue of ML and plastic pollution. Central to this initiative are strategic networking and capacity building through events, webinars, workshops and other actions. Collectively, these initiatives convene experts, researchers, stakeholders, and policymakers to delve into nuanced dimensions of ML and plastic pollution. Many of these High-Level gatherings serve as global platforms for stakeholders to disseminate insights, showcase pioneering technologies, and synchronize efforts towards the collective ambition of reducing marine pollution. The subsequent sections in this deliverable discuss the synthesized learnings from these scientific engagements, portraying a narrative of collective scientific inquiry, technological innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration. This deliverable proposes the creation of a Working Group (WG) to collaborate in the transfer of knowledge and good practices through active engagement and scientific advice publications. The production of a policy brief is aimed at assisting the European Commission and its relevant Directorate General bodies in the implementation of the EU Plastic Strategy.