The Mediterranean is recognised as the sea most affected by plastic pollution, due to its closed configuration and the intensity of maritime, industrial and tourist traffic. In Corsica, and particularly in Cap Corse, concentrations reach record levels of up to 10.43 kg/km², four times more than in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, forming veritable ‘plastic islands’.
Corsica is drowning in plastic and is one of those island territories in distress, hit hard by the scourge of pollution. Located in the heart of one of the most densely polluted areas in the world by microplastics, there is an urgent need for strong and effective action.
RIPARU, a programme lead by Mare Vivu, fights plastic pollution by mobilising and training local networks, identifying sources of pollution and placing this issue at the heart of regional priorities. The initiative supports local authorities, businesses and professional sectors in moving towards models without disposable plastic, while involving young people. It also works at the Mediterranean level to strengthen cooperation, promote the replicability of actions and advocate for islands in international forums.
