This is a distance learning module dedicated to the theme of marine litter monitoring. It has been developed by MIO-ECSDE within the framework of the IPA-Adriatic funded DeFishGear project. It aims to facilitate the efforts of policy makers and stakeholders in effectively dealing with the issue of marine litter in the Adriatic-Ionian macroregion, towards litter free coasts and sea.

Objectives: Learners who complete this MIO-ECSDE & DeFishGear learning tool will:
1. Gain a thorough and deepened understanding of the marine litter monitoring methodologies developed and pilot tested within the DeFishGear project.
2. Acquire knowledge and skills on how to design and implement marine litter monitoring activities to assess: (i) the amount of litter washed ashore and/or deposited on coastlines, including analysis of its composition, spatial distribution and, where possible, source; (ii) the amount of litter on the sea surface (floating litter) including analysis of its composition, spatial distribution and, where possible, source; (iii) the amount of litter deposited on the sea-floor, including analysis of its composition, spatial distribution and, where possible, source.
3. Obtain the necessary technical and scientific background to support the design and implementation of marine litter monitoring programmes within the framework of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the UNEP/MAP Regional Plan for Marine litter Management in the Mediterranean.

Topics: The module focuses on the following 4 lessons:
1. Methodology for Monitoring Marine Litter on Beaches
2. Methodology for Monitoring Marine Litter on the Sea Surface: Visual observation
3. Methodology for Monitoring Marine Litter on the Seafloor (continental shelf): Bottom trawl surveys
4. Methodology for Monitoring Marine Litter on the Seafloor (Shallow coastal waters (0–20m): Visual surveys with SCUBA/snorkeling

Learning method: User-friendly and self-paced, this distance learning module has been designed specifically for the busy practitioner, administrator, professional, student and NGO staff member working for litter-free coasts and seas.