As part of the ongoing project Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms - MACRO CLEAN, exciting research is underway to find out how macroalgae can be used to make bioplastics and how useful and practical this could be.

The first sampling activity of the project took place this spring at selected stations along the Sinop coastline, including İnceburun, Hamsilos, Akliman, Outer Port, Inner Port, Karakum, and Mobil beaches.

During this fieldwork, macroalgae samples, specifically Ulva spp. and Cystoseira spp., were collected to support studies on biomass, nutrient content, and heavy metal levels. These samples will also be used in research related to the production of fertilizers and bioplastics.

At the same time, seawater and sediment samples were collected to investigate their relationship with the macroalgae. In addition, environmental parameters such as temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen were measured on site using a multiparameter device.

This successful sampling marks an important step in the project's research efforts and provides valuable data for ongoing scientific studies.

Curious to learn more? Visit the MACRO CLEAN project website to explore all their latest activities!