On the harmonization of methods for measuring the occurrence, fate and effects of microplastics

We are delighted to introduce this themed issue on microplastics in the environment in Analytical Methods. The motivation for such an issue was based on researchers and statutory agencies around the world calling for the standardization or harmonization of methods to facilitate more effective sampling and analyses of microplastics. The guest editors of this collection have participated in numerous meetings where there has been in-depth discussion about the ‘right’ standard method. As a consequence, the objective of this themed issue was to compile a single text for a government agency, commercial laboratory or research group to nd reviews on the various methods for different environmental sample types and hypotheses as well as introductions for new methods and ideas. Our overarching goal is for this compilation of work to help guide and/or facilitate the harmonization, rather than standardization, of methods so that data can be useful at different scales – e.g., locally, globally and across disciplines. Microplastics, dened by many government agencies as small pieces of