This project focuses on developing a high-school-level research guide and methodology to investigate microplastics in fish. Using simple chemicals to dissolve organic matter and filtering the solution, students can identify microplastics through microscopy. As a citizen science initiative, the project emphasizes reproducible and indicative results over flawless accuracy, with future plans to utilize computer vision for plastic identification. Facilitated in collaboration with the University of Turku, the project includes a dedicated observation portal for participating schools to log data, alongside specific individual data of the fish.

Initiated by Honkajoki High School, the research initially focuses on local waters but aims to rapidly expand into a broader Baltic Sea and European school network. The project empowers youth through impactful environmental research, strengthens their agency and environmental responsibility, and bridges the gap to higher education and international research teams. Honkajoki High School is well-positioned for international expansion, leveraging its recent Erasmus accreditation (turn of 2025) and active role in the European Geoparks Network to connect with partner schools.