1. Microplastic Policy: challenges, measures and dilemmas
In the Netherlands and OSPAR
Wim van Urk
2 December 2018

2. 2011: “Beat the Microbead” campaign
Microplastics entering the policy agenda, In the slipstream of the plastic soup....
2011: “Beat the Microbead” campaign
Netherlands
OSPAR + EU
2012: microplastics is a problem to be studied and tackled
2013: Berlin, Hamburg, EU-studies (MICRO, Clean Seas)
2013: quick scan, attention from parliament
2014: OSPAR RAP Marine litter, candidate indicator
: targeted study on major sources, stakeholder involvement
2015: conferences Brussels (May), Rotterdam (December)
: towards measures, lobby on ban on microbeads (no-regret)
: towards OSPAR- and EU-agenda
Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment
2 December 2018

3. Dilemmas: in general
When to take a measure, if you don't oversee the effects
ecosystem approach/precautionairy principle, don’t get stuck in definitions, public opinion in your favour/political opportunity
Where to take most effective measures in the chain
Least effort-biggest effect, support (politically, societal, market)
Where to put responsibility
Polluter pays principle, "we are in this together" (everybody holds a piece of the puzzle), whoever wants it (head start for first movers)
Major sources versus small sources
Do both. Ban on microbeads in cosmetics: reward first movers with a head start by creating a level playing field... Everybody happy 
Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment
2 December 2018

4. Dilemmas in OSPAR: bridging the differences
Different levels of awareness
Different political agendas
Different governance structures and practices
Different stakeholder involvement and balance of power
Cultural differences
Differences in recources, but a general lack…
MSFD as a driving ánd hampering force
Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment
2 December 2018

5. Thank you for your attention
Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment
2 December 2018