Plastic pollution, particularly microplastics in the form of pellets, poses a serious environmental challenge globally and in Tarragona, where they persist for decades, harming ecosystems and entering food chains. Tarragona is especially affected due to Southern Europe’s largest petrochemical complex, with over 2 million pellets handled annually, increasing the risk of spills and local pollution. Existing regulations to prevent pellet loss are fragmented and insufficient, putting pressure on waste management systems.
The MEDPELLETS 2025/26 project aims to combat plastic pellet pollution by improving the MedPellets programme launched in 2022. It plans to automate the detection and monitoring of pollution, particularly on Pineda beach, while mobilising citizens through participatory science and awareness-raising activities. In collaboration with partners such as Fidra and Surfrider Foundation, it seeks to strengthen regulations on pellet management at local and international levels.
