New problematic aquatic environment issues keep emerging. These may relate to microplastics, pharmaceuticals or new chemicals whose effects in the aquatic environment and on organisms have been little studied. Alternative solutions, studies, policy instruments and methods must be discussed with NGOs, such as Ålands Natur och Miljö (Åland Society for Nature and Environment), and other interest groups. The work can include studies, information activities targeted at consumers and the development of policy instruments. For instance, municipalities and other operators can, on a voluntary basis, choose to make decisions concerning their procurement activities to exclude all products containing microplastics.
