The idea was to create a “plastic target”, in order to investigate if plastic floating in the sea can be detected, depending on its Spectral Signature using satellite or drone. Firstly, we took in situ and laboratory measurements on plastic to create a representative database and discovered its special characteristics which were used as guidelines to spot it. After creating and taking measurements on the target we analyzed the data and created a Prototype Code. Finally, by testing the Prototype Code of plastic bottle, we confirmed that accumulated plastic rubbish can be successfully detected using satellite or drone. Thus, a new, effective way of tracking plastic rubbish is introduced which can contribute in the protection of the marine environment.
A novel advanced treatment process for the removal of antibiotics from wastewater
Antibiotics are emerging pollutants due to their continuous input in the ecosystem, resulting in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which cause immunity to antibiotics. To prevent this contamination the use of sorbents seems promising. Biochar can be characterized as low-cost sorbent from agriculture, that can deliver solutions to a wide spectrum of challenges related to the release of antibiotics .This study aims to examine the sorption of seven antibiotic compounds, by two biochars produced, sludge and manure. Adsorption kinetic experiments were performed. UPLC-MS-MS measured residual antibiotics in solutions with the % removal being calculated. The research took place between July2018 and Feb2019 by high school students in Cyprus under surveillance of the Nireas-IWRC, University of Cyprus.