Plastics perform important functions in our everyday lives. But, when they enter the environment, they lead to ecological and health-related problems, especially in the form of microplastics. Although the scale of the problems is not yet fully understood, it is time to take action. That is why Fraunhofer UMSICHT has been working with microplastics and plastics in the environment since 2014. The focus is on the sustainability assessment and the development of solution strategies to reduce plastics in the environment.