OSPAR request on development of a common monitoring protocol for plastic particles in fish stomachs and selected shellfish on the basis of existing fish disease surveys

ICES provides a preliminary protocol for monitoring of plastics in fish stomachs in the OSPAR maritime area. There has been no such monitoring of plastics previously, so it is recommended that, if adopted, this protocol is reviewed at regular intervals and improved on the basis of experience. Integration with fish disease and fish stock surveys will be cost-effective, and the possibility of using samples from commercial vessels should be explored. Certain plastics are better monitored through otherways than the examination of fish stomachs.