I am a Research Associate at Okeanos, currently leading the "Azores Marine Litter Research Group", implemented in 2015. Our primary focus is to investigate the intricacies of plastic debris and its impacts on the marine ecosystem of the Azores and other oceanic islands worldwide. As the principal investigator, I lead multiple research projects dedicated to this critical subject, as well as other areas concerning human impacts on our oceans. At present, I hold the position of chair for the ICES working group on marine litter, actively guiding discussions and strategies in this field. Additionally, I am an esteemed member of various international expert groups devoted to tackling marine pollution, bridging the realms of scientific inquiry and policymaking to drive impactful change.