Mirco Haseler

Mirco Haseler is a researcher at the Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research (IOW) in Rostock, Germany, specializing in marine litter monitoring and coastal management. His work focuses on developing and implementing standardized methods for assessing marine debris pollution, particularly in the context of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). He leads and collaborates on international projects such as Circular Ocean-bound Plastic (COP) and BalticLitter, addressing litter management in coastal regions across Europe, North Africa, and the Mediterranean.

Education: PhD in Ecology and Environmental Sciences (Klaipeda University, 2021), M.Sc. in Water Management (Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, 2015), B.Eng. in Landscape Development (University of Applied Sciences, 2011).

Research Interests: Marine litter distribution patterns, policy implementation for coastal sustainability, and innovative monitoring techniques using drones and advanced sampling methods. His expertise includes collaboration with NGOs, governmental agencies, and international bodies like the EU Technical Group on Marine Litter.

Projects: Active in over 10 countries, including Germany, Sweden, Morocco, and Egypt. Key initiatives include TouMaLi (North African waste management), BONUS MICROPOLL (microplastics in the Baltic), and OPTIMUS (eutrophication prevention via mussel farming).

Publications: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles since 2016, focusing on beach litter assessment, microplastic contamination, and policy guidance. His 2025 work on Mediterranean beach pollution and 2023 EU monitoring guidelines highlight his impact in shaping global environmental practices.

Scientific Engagement: Member of the German National Working Group on Marine Litter and the EU MSFD Technical Group. His research bridges scientific rigor with practical solutions for coastal communities and policymakers.