Smallest plastic particles called micro beads have come to be regarded as posing a threat to environment and water bodies. However, many gaps remain in the research regarding the effects of micro beads and there is a lack of promising approaches to deal with the problems and dangers connected to them.

An overview over the current state of research on micro beads in German inland waterways focusing on the effects of its accumulation and possible treatment technologies was prepared. This background work was based on in-depth literature analysis as well as interviews of various experts.