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- Category: News
The cooperation between the HAEE and the NICOLE goes back a long way. We are pleased to announce, that this year's autumn NICOLE workshop meeting will take place in Budapest, in cooperation with the HAEE, between 12 and 14, November 2025.
The organizing committee includes Dr. Csaba Ágoston, president, and Gergely Tóth, head of the Remediation and Damage Control Workgroup. Our participation in the organisation will provide an opportunity to focus on the state of the art of domestic remediation and related region-specific issues.
- Category: News
The fourth episode of the Aquatic Plastic podcast takes listeners on an inspiring journey with Bernard Merkx, co-founder of the Waste Free Ocean Initiative. Drawing from his deep-rooted connection to the Dutch waterways, Merkx shares how his passion for the environment evolved into a mission to tackle plastic pollution in rivers and seas. From mobilizing fishermen to shaping EU policy, he reveals how waste can be transformed into opportunity—and why rethinking our relationship with water is more urgent than ever.
The power of community and policy
In the end, the episode offers a hopeful yet urgent message: the fight against plastic pollution isn’t lost, but it demands collective responsibility. From policymakers drafting smarter laws to individuals refusing single-use plastics, everyone has a role.
Bernard Merkx’s story is proof that progress is possible. It’s not just about cleaning rivers—it’s about changing mindsets, one bottle at a time.
From recycling plant to riverbank
Merkx began his journey in the recycling industry, gaining firsthand experience with the systems that handle society’s waste. But it wasn’t enough. He saw that while the technology existed to recycle plastic, the will to do so consistently—and effectively—was often lacking. That realization led him to co-found the Waste Free Ocean Initiative, an organization dedicated to reducing marine litter through hands-on collection efforts and strategic partnerships.
Waste Free Ocean takes a unique approach: partnering with local fishermen and communities to retrieve plastic waste directly from rivers and coastal areas. These recovered plastics are then recycled into usable products, from furniture to packaging. It’s a model that not only cleans the water but also creates economic value and public awareness.
Collaboration as a catalyst
One of the key themes of the episode is collaboration. Merkx highlights the importance of building alliances—not just with NGOs, but also with industries, governments, and everyday citizens. “No one can solve this alone,” he says. “But if everyone plays their part, change becomes possible.”
This collaborative spirit extends to shaping policy. Merkx has become an influential voice in European waste management, advocating for legislative changes that prioritize circular economy principles and stricter plastic regulation. His work emphasizes that innovation must be matched with political will.
A broader vision for water
The podcast also explores the broader implications of water pollution and mismanagement with guests Martin Kovacs and Michal Kravcik, who introduce listeners to the “new water paradigm.” This framework emphasizes the role of small water cycles—local systems of evaporation and precipitation that are disrupted by deforestation, urbanization, and pollution.
By restoring wetlands, promoting sustainable agriculture, and protecting natural landscapes, they argue, we can not only protect water quality but also influence regional climates. Their message aligns with Merkx’s: water issues are deeply interconnected with environmental, economic and social systems.
The power of community and policy
In the end, the episode offers a hopeful yet urgent message: the fight against plastic pollution isn’t lost, but it demands collective responsibility. From policymakers drafting smarter laws to individuals refusing single-use plastics, everyone has a role.
Bernard Merkx’s story is proof that progress is possible. It’s not just about cleaning rivers—it’s about changing mindsets, one bottle at a time.
Listen to the full episode of Aquatic Plastic to learn more about how innovation, community action, and a lifelong connection to water can help restore the health of our planet’s most vital ecosystems.
- Category: News
A new roundtable discussion series, based on the Hungarian roundtable format and know-how, was organised in Ljubjana, Slovenia , building on the experiences of the Tid(y)Up project.
On April 16th 2025, to mark the coming World Earth Day, the Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia organised an expert workshop in Ljubljana as part of the Interreg Aquatic Plastic project. The event with the title "Connecting for Waste-Free Rivers - From the Problem to the Solutions" brought together key stakeholders in the field of water management, waste management, scientific institutions and NGOs that are making an important contribution to reducing pollution in the Slovenian rivers.
The workshop aimed at developing concrete proposals and guidelines for pollution prevention and effective management of riverine litter. Using the World Café method, which encourages open dialogue and cooperation, participants discussed in small groups key challenges, existing good practices and possible solutions to reduce pollution in aquatic environments.
The collected findings and opinions will be incorporated into an expert document with recommendations that will serve as a starting point for the preparation of future strategic documents, such as the Slovenian Water Management Plan and the Slovenian Marine Management Plan.
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The event was attended by representatives of ministries, HPP operators, waste management companies, NGOs, expert institutions and other key stakeholders in the field of water management.
The main objectives of the workshop were:
- to develop proposals for measure to reduce riverine litter;
- to strengthen cooperation between different stakeholders;
- to examine the implementation of existing legislation and regulations;
- increase awareness of the importance of clean rivers among professionals and the general public.
The event highlighted the importance of raising public awareness, the effective functioning of municipal services and waste collection centres, as well as the role of water and coastal authorities, who are key to ensuring a clean and healthy aquatic environment. The workshop was followed by a practical demonstration of microplastic sampling on the Ljubljanica River, using a water pump and a "manta" net.
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The workshop was part of the Interreg Aquatic Plastic project and was aimed to collect stakeholders’ suggestions and practical insights.
- Category: News
The third podcast episode centered around a conversation with Sydney Steenland, who shared her experiences of growing up with a profound connection to the sea and her journey into addressing plastic pollution. Sydney's upbringing was unconventional; her family lived on boats, moving from place to place, which instilled in her a deep appreciation and understanding of the marine environment. Despite financial struggles, her family found solace and creativity in this lifestyle, eventually leading to the establishment of the Sea Monkey Project. The project was born out of a desire to address plastic pollution, especially in remote communities, by creating accessible recycling solutions.
This episode feels like listening to an audiobook. Sydney's life is full of twists and turns. As a child, she experienced a closeness to nature that few are ever fortunate enough to enjoy. Of course, that came with its own set of challenges. Her childhood experiences ultimately led the still very young Sydney to establish the Sea Monkey Project.
If you have a moment, dive into the story of Sydney's life and the journey behind her aspirations. It really is like a book—captivating and impossible to put down / turn off!
What can you learn from this episode?
- In the opening chapter, we delve into Sydney’s life story—how a so-called spoiled child blossomed into a nature-loving, boat-dwelling, life-embracing individual, both as a child and an adult. We also explore what nature truly means to her.
- “I was not homeschooled, I was world-schooled” - Sydney.
- You can get to know someone who was raised like, lived like Moana.
- The second chapter shifts focus to the pressing issue of plastic pollution and the inspiring journey behind the creation of the Sea Monkey Project.
- How to build a machine for plastic recycling?
- And why will others want to use it too?
- How to build a machine for plastic recycling?
- Finally, in the third chapter, we uncover some solutions to this global challenge. But will the story have a happy ending? Tune in to find out!
About Sea Monkey Project:
“At the Sea Monkey Project, we turn trash into treasure, creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering a decentralized circular economy ecosystem, one community at a time. We believe that by rethinking our material choices and equipping marginalized groups with the tools and knowledge to upcycle plastic waste, we can make a lasting impact on both the environment and society. Together, we are building a future where the oceans are cleaner, and opportunities are endless” - https://seamonkeyprojects.com/#who-are-we.
Sydney described the process of developing the recycling machines and the challenges faced along the way, including using reclaimed materials and learning through trial and error. The Sea Monkey Project succeeded due to its innovative approach and commitment to local engagement, and it has become a beacon for small-scale recycling efforts.
Her journey hasn't been without personal challenges, especially being a young face of a significant environmental project and dealing with public attention. However, she emphasized the importance of storytelling and genuine connection to nature, which keeps her grounded and motivated.
This episode serves as a compelling example of how personal history, passion, and a bit of happenstance can lead to significant positive impact in the world, particularly in raising awareness and addressing environmental issues like plastic pollution.
About Aquatic Plastic
Aquatic Plastic is brought to you by the Interreg Danube Region Programme, co-funded by the European Union. Operating within the world's most international river basin, the Aquatic Plastic Danube-Region Interreg project unites 33 organizations spanning 10 countries. Together, we are executing 19 pilot actions and developing 8 solutions aimed at preventing, reducing, and managing plastic pollution in the natural waterways of the Danube River Basin. How do we navigate through such diverse borders? Explore further by delving into our report, and begin following our journey on LinkedIn and other social media platforms.
Listen here - Aquatic Plastic Podcast - Episode 3
- Category: News
As of 1 July 2023, MOHU MOL Waste Management Ltd. is responsible for the environmentally and economically sustainable operation of the domestic waste management system, which includes raising awareness of the need for door-to-door and separate collection of selective waste. The common goal is to increase the amount of waste going to selective collection, yards and containers, and thus to reduce the amount of waste going into the mixed municipal waste bin. By correctly separating recyclable waste, you can help to protect our natural resources and build a clean, environmentally friendly country and a responsible society. The following information, posters and guides will help you do this.
We know from experience that there are still many "What and where?" questions and a lack of information, so we hope that these downloadable, printable brochures will help to further widen the circle of environmentally aware citizens.
More info: https://mohu.hu/hu/mit-hova-dobjak
- Category: News
Read the Story of Bendi and Andrew, two Plastic Pirates who fight plastic pollution all over Europe.
We are Bendy and Andrew, two young Plastic Pirate ambassadors from Hungary, East Europe. We are students and volunteers. We live alongside a Danube River tributary, called the Tisza River.
Bendy as a kid, giving an interview (left picture). Andrew as a kid sitting
on a pile of plastic collected during a river cleanup (right picture).
When Andrew and I were small kids, our parents took us on some strange summer holidays. We did not go to the sea, like other families, but instead, we went to the river and activities such as the Plastic Cup. This is a funny boat race for silly people who do not build their boats out of ordinary materials like wood or glass fiber as any other person would do. No, they build their boats from plastic bottles and other kinds of waste and call themselves plastic pirates! Interesting isn't it? We grew up with this Plastic Cup. In the beginning, we thought it would always be like this: friends, boats, and lots of fun. Then, as we grew older, we started to understand, this is a bit more serious than that.
Getting (not too) serious and making some videos
The Tisza River is polluted with a lot of plastics. A lot of plastic, in some places you cannot imagine how much. The plastic comes from places like Ukraine, where there is a war ongoing and people cannot afford to order services like garbage trucks. There is also a major plastic flow from other places like poor places in Romania. That is why we were sailing with these plastic bottle boats and cleaning the river. Then our parents asked us if we could do something different. Let’s do some environmental or educational videos - they said. And of course, we said yes. Even if we were small, we understood that plastic pollution is a great problem, and we have to do something about it. So we tried our best. Now, years later it is a bit awkward for us to watch these films again.
Doing citizen science and making even more videos
First, we did not know what citizen science was. But then we were asked to grab a smartphone, download the TRASHOUT application and go out with family and friends. The idea was to find plastic pollution along the banks of the Tisza and report these sites via the app. The project was called #petcamino (in Hungarian the plastic bottle is called the PET bottle, hence the name). If you search for the hashtag on Facebook, you will find some content about it, here is just one video.
The TRASHOUT application can be used to report pollution sites.
The idea worked because people from all over tried to help. Volunteers from 5 countries walked both shores of the river, which means more than 2000 kilometres of the bank was marked. We found thousands (!) of polluted sites and we have put them on a plastic pirate TREASURE MAP, still used today to organize river cleanups. But if you ask us, the most important result was not the map or the data, but more the videos which helped a lot of people to find each other.
This also helped us to participate in Plastic Pirates GO EUROPE! , because we knew how to bring in schools and kids to projects. When we did the Plastic Pirates sampling on the Bodrog river in Sárospatak, we thought that we are doing something important, something that counts. And that felt really good. We also loved being at the Plastic Pirates summit 2024 in Brussels as Plastic Pirates Ambassadors! Not only because I’m obsessed with traveling around the world, but also because of the people we met there. It was so interesting to talk to the other young Ambassadors and hear about their experiences in their countries.
Bendy and Andrew (top left) with Plastic Pirate Ambassadors from all
over Europe at the Plastic Pirates Summit in Brussels, November 2024.
Finding other plastic pirates in Ukraine and making even more videos
We think everybody is a plastic pirate who is trying to stop plastic pollution in rivers or the sea. Some of us do citizen science, others, like Béla from Ukraine, collect waste. He found us on Facebook, because of the videos that we made. He did not have any money, so at the Plastic Cup, we made a crowdfunding campaign to help him. It collected around 10.000 USD in 3 days! From the funding Béla could buy a big truck which he has been collecting waste with ever since. Here is a film about him and his Riversaver Truck.
We also travelled to Ukraine and saw where the plastic was coming from with our own eyes. We went there with our plastic recycling workshop, called the River Litter Lab (in Hungarian: MÜMÜ).
BENDY (left photo) with school kids in Ukraine, working as an animator of the River
Litter Lab. On the right, is Andrew with kids in Bulgaria, showing how to recycle plastics.
We found so many nice people in Ukraine. Friendly people who, just like us, wanted to stop the pollution. Believe it or not, now Plastic Cup has helped to buy not only one truck but many more, minibuses, forklifts, plastic shredding machines, and baling machines. We also bought hundreds of waste bins. So as we write this, we are more successful with this than with river cleanups. Because with river cleanups we already collected about 400 tons of plastic by now. But in Ukraine, we have collected more than 1000 tons of plastic! And all this before it entered the river, or the ocean.
More Information
Plastic Pirates and the Mission to Restore our Ocean and Waters
By applying the citizen science approach to investigate the importance of rivers as pathways to ocean pollution, the Plastic Pirates – Go Europe! citizen science initiative enables researchers to identify sources of and mitigation measures for plastic pollution. Through upscaling the initiative to the coverage of river systems and geographical areas across the EU, citizens will be empowered to produce data at the local level and, thereby, to contribute to closing the research gap at the European level. The Plastic Pirates will help to achieve the objectives of the Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters , in particular its ambition to prevent and eliminate pollution in European seas and waters, and is included as specific action in its implementation plan.
source: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/5a754f546f6d4c5e95d2171709ba0b30, by Bendeguz Bachrathy and Andras D. Molnar
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