Both civil society networks and research institutions are generating important information on litter in ecosystems of all kinds. However, divergences in litter categorization and especially the poor comparability of the measured quantities make this information underused, and the much-needed knowledge to guide management strategies remains limited.

The main objective of the Global Litter Observatory (GLO) is to add value to the vast flow of information on litter pollution by improving its comparability, quantitative character, and accessibility. It is a bottom-up programme addressed to increase the empirical support to manage the litter problem.

GLO compiles and processes existing information to deliver more comparable data. To do this, it adoptes a mass-based metric to harmonize datasets. GLO also provides different tools to make data collection more efficient as well as to facilitate the analysis of information.

Data Availability

The map below shows the current data availability in GLO. Data comprise litter density in marine and riverine ecosystems.

  • To select environment (water, floor and shoreline) and size interval (micro- or macro-litter), use "Map and Tools" and "Marine litter" tab at the top right. Micro- and macro-litter are split by a threshold of about 2 cm.
  • To zoom and move on the map, use the touchpad or the pointing device.
  • Selecting points on the map and clicking on the data id number, the source and the sampling method are displayed.
  • To go back to the initial selection of parameters, click on the house symbol

Access to data in mass units is open to GLO partners. Third parties may request access to data for specific activities and projects. Upon receipt of a request, Marine Litter Lab, in consultation with the data provider partners, will consider the request and provide a response within 15 working days.

SPONSORED BY THE UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030

FUNDED by the European Union (NextGeneration) as part of the Proof-of-Concept Program of the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities

These tools were developed as part of the Global Litter Observatory project (I+D+i PDC2021-121690-I00), funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and by the European Union NextGenerationEU/PRTR.

© 2020 DESIGNED AND DEVELOPED BY INVISUAL.ES