Back in September, Surfrider Europe and INCA trained local stakeholders in Albania on using the OSPAR river monitoring methodology, in the cities of Elbasan and Librazhd.
The first day was a theoretical training led by Surfrider, introducing participants to the OSPAR methodology and its importance for monitoring plastic pollution in rivers. For the purpose of this training, the OSPAR River Guide was translated into Albanian.
On the second day, they went into the field for the first collection following the OSPAR River protocol. Participants practiced counting, categorising, and documenting plastic items on the riverbanks of the Shkumbin river. Thanks to this training, participants are now able to carry out future monitoring independently, with Surfrider providing remote support if needed.
The long-term objective is to ensure effective monitoring of the Shkumbin river, increase local awareness of plastic pollution, and gather highly relevant, localised data. This data will:
In February 2026, INCA carried out a new monitoring activity in collaboration with the Municipality of Elbasan. Schools and local communities were also engaged, with students actively taking part in the monitoring process. Based on citizen science, the OSPAR methodology empowers citizens, students and institutions to contribute directly to environmental data collection. The day combined scientific monitoring and a clean-up action, raising awareness among local citizens and encouraging stronger advocacy to prevent river pollution, particularly from single-use plastics.
During the year, INCA will continue the monitoring in Librazhd and implement the protocol across all four seasons, helping to build a clearer picture of plastic pollution in the river.
The BeMed+ project is generously supported by the Fonds Français pour l’Environnement Mondial (FFEM), the Aether Fund of the Foundation for Future Generations, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the Fondation Didier et Martine Primat, the Fondation Audemars-Watkins, and the France-IUCN Partnership.
