EXIT Foundation participated in the 6th International Conference MICRO 2026, held in Cádiz, Spain, from 12 to 16 October, as part of the European INSPIRE project team. The Foundation was represented by Miloš Milošević, Project Coordinator, at the event, which brought together researchers and experts to exchange scientific knowledge and explore solutions for detecting, collecting and preventing plastic waste from entering aquatic environments.
With a particular focus on microplastics, MICRO 2026 continued a conference series that has connected the international research community for more than a decade. The event provided a platform for presenting emerging research, identifying knowledge gaps and strengthening collaboration to protect aquatic ecosystems.
The INSPIRE team presented its latest findings through oral presentations, posters, interactive Walk and Talks, and panel discussions. A dedicated project booth showcased technologies and practical approaches to detecting and removing plastic waste from European rivers, as well as preventing further pollution.
Daniel Gonzalez presented “A Global Reporting Tool for Evidence-Based Plastic Governance from Local to Global Scales”, while Maria Kazour presented “Site-specific Ecological Risk Assessment of Microplastics Using Sensitivity Distribution-Based Approach: Evaluating Pre- and Post-Mitigation”.
The poster programme featured Ana Catarino’s “Towards Harmonized and Open Litter Data in Inland and Transitional Waters” and Mariana Miranda’s “Harmonizing Microlitter Data Collection Across Six European Rivers for Baseline Pollution Levels and Interventions Assessment: Insights from the INSPIRE Project”.
INSPIRE team members also co-hosted sessions on assessing contamination in drinking water, rivers and freshwater ecosystems, and led interactive Walk and Talk groups. On the final day, Ana Catarino and Daniel Gonzalez presented the main conclusions and takeaways from the first day’s discussions.
Participation in MICRO 2026 gave the INSPIRE team an opportunity to share project outcomes, connect with the international research community and contribute to the development of evidence-based approaches for reducing plastic waste and protecting European rivers.
