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Haarr ML, Westerveld L, Fabres J, Iversen KR, Busch KET. A novel GIS-based tool for predicting coastal litter accumulation and optimising coastal cleanup actions. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 139:117-126. [PMID: 30686408 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Effective site selection is a key component of maximising debris removal during coastal cleanup actions. We tested a GIS-based predictive model to identify marine litter hotspots in Lofoten, Norway based on shoreline gradient and shape. Litter density was recorded at 27 randomly selected locations with 5 transects sampled in each. Shoreline gradient was a limiting factor to litter accumulation when >35%. The curvature of the coastline correlated differently with litter density at different spatial scales. The greatest litter concentrations were in small coves located on larger headlands. A parsimonious model scoring sites on a scale of 1-5 based on shoreline slope and shape had the highest validation success. Sites unlikely to have high litter concentrations were successfully identified and could be avoided. The accuracy of hotspot identifications was more variable, and presumably more parameters influencing litter deposition, such as shoreline aspect relative to prevailing winds, should be incorporated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joan Fabres
- GRID-Arendal, Teaterplassen 3, N-4836 Arendal, Norway
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102
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Rossi LC, Scherer AL, Petry MV. First record of debris ingestion by the shorebird American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) on the Southern coast of Brazil. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 138:235-240. [PMID: 30660268 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.11.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Plastic has become abundant in the oceans and proved to be a threat to marine and coastal fauna. In this study, we present the first record of synthetic debris ingested by the shorebird American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) in Brazil. We collected 24 stomach contents from October 2007 to October 2015 and 58% were juveniles. Synthetic materials were found in 100% of stomachs. Used plastic fragments and plastic pellets were the most frequent items, beige and white were more common colors. Synthetic material may be unintentionally ingested directly through substrate consumption or indirectly through prey consumption. Hence, debris ingestion may be common, representing an impact to coastal birds. Based on our results, we hope to highlight the need for public policies to reduce the disposal of synthetic debris in the oceans and beaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Chesini Rossi
- Pós-graduação em Biologia - Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos - UNISINOS, Avenida Unisinos, 950, Bairro Cristo Rei, São Leopoldo 93020-190, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Pós-graduação em Ecologia e Biodiversidade - Universidade Estadual Paulista, Departamento de Ecologia, 13506-900 Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Angelo Luís Scherer
- Pós-graduação em Biologia - Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos - UNISINOS, Avenida Unisinos, 950, Bairro Cristo Rei, São Leopoldo 93020-190, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Maria Virginia Petry
- Pós-graduação em Biologia - Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos - UNISINOS, Avenida Unisinos, 950, Bairro Cristo Rei, São Leopoldo 93020-190, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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103
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Battisti C, Kroha S, Kozhuharova E, De Michelis S, Fanelli G, Poeta G, Pietrelli L, Cerfolli F. Fishing lines and fish hooks as neglected marine litter: first data on chemical composition, densities, and biological entrapment from a Mediterranean beach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:1000-1007. [PMID: 30456619 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-3753-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
We reported first data on the densities and chemical composition of fishing lines and fish hooks deposited on a Mediterranean beach. On a sampling area of 1.5 ha, we removed a total of 185,028 cm of fishing lines (density 12.34 cm/m2) and 33 hooks (density 22 units/ha). Totally, 637.62 g (42.5 mg/m2) of fishing lines were collected. We sampled 120 items entangled belongings to 7 animal taxa (density 6.49 items/100 m of fishing lines). We also observed a not quantifiable number of egagropiles (Posidonia oceanica spheroids), Rhodophyceae (Halymenia sp.) and segments of reeds of Phragmites communis, trapped in the fishing lines. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used in order to identify the chemical composition of the fishing lines: 92% was made of nylon while 8.0% was determined as fluorocarbon based polymers (polyvinylidene fluoride). Because of their subtlety and reduced size, sandy beach cleaning operations should include at least two consecutive removal samplings: indeed, a part of this litter (12.14%) is not removed in the first sampling. The unexpected high density of fishing lines suggests specific management actions aimed to periodically remove this neglected anthropogenic litter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Battisti
- 'Torre Flavia' LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Protected Areas - Regional Parks Service, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, via Tiburtina, 691, 00159, Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvio Kroha
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Elina Kozhuharova
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia De Michelis
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuliano Fanelli
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Poeta
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Loris Pietrelli
- ENEA-C.R. Casaccia, Via Anguillarese, 301, 00123, Rome, Italy
| | - Fulvio Cerfolli
- Department of Ecology and Biology Sciences (DEB), Tuscia University, Largo dell'Università, snc, Blocco C, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
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104
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Turrell WR. A simple model of wind-blown tidal strandlines: How marine litter is deposited on a mid-latitude, macro-tidal shelf sea beach. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 137:315-330. [PMID: 30503440 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A simple hypothesis-driven model of how floating marine plastic litter is blown onto a beach, and then moved on and off the beach by winds and rising and falling water levels is implemented in a computer simulation. The simulation applied to Aberdeen beach, Scotland, suggests that the interaction between varying winds and water levels alone, coupled to an assumed constant offshore floating litter density, can account for 1) the order of magnitude of the long term average (2000-2010) beach plastic litter loading (observed = 127 np/100 m, simulated = 114 np/100 m); 2) the observed frequency spectrum of low water beach plastic litter loadings; 3) the magnitude of the ratio between offshore floating plastic litter densities and onshore beach plastic litter loadings; 4) zero overall net beach plastic litter accumulation. Results are relevant to beach survey design, designing methods to estimate litter accumulation rates and the setting of MSFD beach litter targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- W R Turrell
- Marine Scotland Science, Marine Laboratory, Aberdeen AB11 9DB, Scotland, UK.
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105
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Hipfner JM, Lok EK, Jardine C, Studholme KR, Belette Lebeau AC, Wright KG, Trefry SA, Drever MC, Jones G. Beach-cast debris surveys on Triangle Island, British Columbia, Canada indicate the timing of arrival of 2011 Tōhoku tsunami debris in North America. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 136:407-413. [PMID: 30509824 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We conducted beach-cast debris transect surveys on Triangle Island, British Columbia, Canada in 2012-2017 to (1) establish a baseline against which to track future changes in stranded debris on this small, uninhabited island; and (2) time the arrival in western North America of debris released by the 2011 Tōhoku tsunami. Most (90%) of the six-year total of 6784 debris items tallied was composed of Styrofoam or plastic. The number of debris items peaked in 2014 (waste Styrofoam, rope) and 2015 (waste plastic, wood), and cumulative totals for all debris types were ca. 50% higher in 2014-15 than in 2012-13 and 2016-17. The peaks in 2014-15 probably represented the arrival of the bulk of the tsunami debris, based on close correspondence with forecasting models and debris surveys elsewhere. A fuller understanding of the movement of the Tōhoku tsunami debris will require information from other beach monitoring programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mark Hipfner
- Wildlife Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Erika K Lok
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | - Agathe C Belette Lebeau
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kenneth G Wright
- Wildlife Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah A Trefry
- Wildlife Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mark C Drever
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gregory Jones
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
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106
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Khim JS, Hong S, Yoon SJ, Nam J, Ryu J, Kang SG. A comparative review and analysis of tentative ecological quality objectives (EcoQOs) for protection of marine environments in Korea and China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 242:2027-2039. [PMID: 30231457 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.06.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Ecological quality objectives (EcoQOs), as tools for implementing ecosystem approach, have long been acknowledged to protect the marine ecosystems and fisheries in regional seas through joint efforts by surrounding countries over the past decade. The present review analyzed the best available meta-data relating to the five ecosystem elements that were recently proposed by the Northwest Pacific Action Plan to evaluate the current status of coastal ecosystem health in marine environment of the Yellow Sea. We suggested the six tentative EcoQOs among five ecological quality elements including: 1) biological and habitat diversity; 2) invasive species; 3) eutrophication; 4) pollutants; and 5) marine litters. Environmental status was assessed, depending on the EcoQOs targets, by comparison to the world average values, existing environmental standards, or reported values of other regional seas. Results of analysis revealed that among the six tentative EcoQOs, two target objectives to marine biodiversity and concentrations of nutrients (viz., DIN and DIP) were met towards good environmental status. Whilst, three EcoQOs relating to hypoxia and red-tide, pollutants (persistent toxic substances and metals), and marine litters (including microplastics) did not meet and one relating to invasive species could not be judged due to insufficient data sets. The biggest weak point for developing suitable EcoQOs and assessing status of ecosystem health could be insufficient meta-data sets available and/or discrepancy in methodological details cross the data-sets or between the two targeted countries. Thus, the cooperation of neighboring countries, viz., Korea and China for the Yellow Sea, is necessary for the ecosystem based management of our regional sea in the future. Overall, this first time review for the assessment of target tentative EcoQOs in the Yellow Sea region encompassing coasts of Korea and China would provide a better understanding of the current status of environmental pollution and ecosystem health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Seong Khim
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences & Research Institute of Oceanography, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seongjin Hong
- Department of Ocean Environmental Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Joon Yoon
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences & Research Institute of Oceanography, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungho Nam
- Marine Policy Research Division, Korea Maritime Institute, Busan 49111, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongseong Ryu
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Anyang University, Ganghwagun, Incheon 23038, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Gil Kang
- NOWPAP MERRAC & Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering, Daejeon 34103, Republic of Korea
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107
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Yoon J, Kim DY, Kim D. A numerical study on the behavior of coastal waste particles in a wind-power sorting system for renewable fuel production. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 80:387-396. [PMID: 30455020 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2018.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to analyze the coastal waste particles in a wind-power sorting system is applied to produce renewable fuel using commercial CFD package (ANSYS-CFX code). The numerical methodology results predicted various coastal waste shredded inside the sorting machine. Furthermore, to identify the effect of working conditions on separation characteristics, a parametric study is performed. These study findings will offer appropriate a wind-power sorting conditions according to the purpose of using coastal waste. Under basic conditions, the characteristics of coastal waste particle behavior and the sorting of waste particles were analyzed, and the behavioral changes of diverse particles were identified by changing the airflow rate to improve the sorting performance. As a result, an appropriate airflow rate, Qair = 85 m3/min, at which the change in the airflow rate can simultaneously meet the conditions for both the recovery of the combustibles and the removal of the incombustibles, was selected with the selection efficiency rate was 92%, and the combustibles content was 99%. Based on the results of the analysis, the particle characteristics of sorting were identified to reduce and recycle the coastal waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonghyuk Yoon
- Bio Resource Team, Plant Engineering Division, Institute for Advanced Engineering, 175-28, 51 Goan-ro, Beagam-myeon, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 17180, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Yong Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Mokpo National University, 61 dorim-ri, 1666 Yeongsan-ro, Cheonggye-myeon, Muan-gun, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Daegi Kim
- Bio Resource Team, Plant Engineering Division, Institute for Advanced Engineering, 175-28, 51 Goan-ro, Beagam-myeon, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 17180, Republic of Korea.
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108
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Shahul Hamid F, Bhatti MS, Anuar N, Anuar N, Mohan P, Periathamby A. Worldwide distribution and abundance of microplastic: How dire is the situation? WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2018; 36:873-897. [PMID: 30103651 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x18785730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The widespread occurrence of microplastic has invaded the environment to an extent that it appears to be present throughout the globe. This review investigated the global abundance and distribution of microplastics in marine and freshwater ecosystems. Furthermore, the issues and challenges have been addressed for better findings in microplastics studies. Findings revealed that the accumulation of microplastics varies geographically, with locations, hydrodynamic conditions, environmental pressure, and time. From this review, it is crucial that proper regulations are proposed and implemented in order to reduce the occurrence of microplastics in the aquatic environment. Without appropriate law and regulations, microplastic pollution will eventually threaten human livelihood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fauziah Shahul Hamid
- 1 Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- 2 Center for Research in Waste Management, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mehran Sanam Bhatti
- 1 Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norkhairiyah Anuar
- 1 Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norkhairah Anuar
- 1 Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Priya Mohan
- 1 Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Agamuthu Periathamby
- 1 Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- 2 Center for Research in Waste Management, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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109
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Ríos N, Frias JPGL, Rodríguez Y, Carriço R, Garcia SM, Juliano M, Pham CK. Spatio-temporal variability of beached macro-litter on remote islands of the North Atlantic. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 133:304-311. [PMID: 30041319 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter has been identified as one of the major environmental problems that oceans are currently facing. Worldwide efforts are being made to reduce the input of litter into the oceans, and projects aimed at monitoring their quantities are key to evaluate their success. This study, provide baseline information on the quantities of marine litter found on 42 beaches spread throughout the nine islands of the Azores archipelago, North Atlantic Ocean. A total of 31,439 items were collected throughout the archipelago with an average density of 0.62 ± 0.15 macro-litter items m-2. Of this litter 87% were plastic and its majority (67%) plastic fragments. Six beaches were further monitored every three months for two years. Substrate type and wind exposure were important factors for explaining patterns of litter deposition. Our results highlight that marine litter have the tendency to accumulate in remote islands of the North Atlantic Ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Ríos
- OMA - Observatório do Mar dos Açores, Fábrica da Baleia de Porto Pim, Monte da Guia, 9900 Horta, Faial, Portugal
| | - João P G L Frias
- MFRC - Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland; IMAR - Instituto do Mar, Departamento de Oceanografia e Pescas, Universidade dos Açores, 9901-862 Horta, Portugal
| | - Yasmina Rodríguez
- OKEANOS - Universidade dos Açores, Departamento de Oceanografia e Pescas, 9901-862 Horta, Portugal; IMAR - Instituto do Mar, Departamento de Oceanografia e Pescas, Universidade dos Açores, 9901-862 Horta, Portugal
| | - Rita Carriço
- OKEANOS - Universidade dos Açores, Departamento de Oceanografia e Pescas, 9901-862 Horta, Portugal; IMAR - Instituto do Mar, Departamento de Oceanografia e Pescas, Universidade dos Açores, 9901-862 Horta, Portugal
| | - Sofia M Garcia
- DRAM - Direção Regional dos Assuntos do Mar/Regional Directorate for Sea Affairs, Secretaria Regional do Mar, Ciência e Tecnologia, Colónia Alemã - Apartado 9, 9900-014 Horta, Faial, Portugal
| | - Manuela Juliano
- OKEANOS - Universidade dos Açores, Departamento de Oceanografia e Pescas, 9901-862 Horta, Portugal
| | - Christopher K Pham
- OKEANOS - Universidade dos Açores, Departamento de Oceanografia e Pescas, 9901-862 Horta, Portugal.
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110
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Lavers JL, Hutton I, Bond AL. Ingestion of marine debris by Wedge-tailed Shearwaters (Ardenna pacifica) on Lord Howe Island, Australia during 2005-2018. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 133:616-621. [PMID: 30041356 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Annual rates of plastic production have been increasing rapidly since the 1950s. Inadequate or improper disposal of plastic products has contributed to a significant increase in plastic debris in the world's oceans and a corresponding increase in the number of species negatively affected by this debris. Here we investigate trends in the type, amount, and colour of ingested plastic over time, and determine whether ingested plastic contributes to reduced health of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters (Ardenna pacifica) on Lord Howe Island, Australia. The results show no clear influence of ingested plastic on body condition, while trends in the prevalence, number, and mass of plastic items ingested per bird during 2005 and 2013-2018 were more variable. There was some evidence adult birds are selecting plastic by colour. Future monitoring of this pan-tropical seabird would provide a unique opportunity to gather data from multiple sites, concurrently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Lavers
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia.
| | - Ian Hutton
- Lord Howe Island Museum, P.O. Box 157, Lord Howe Island, New South Wales 2898, Australia
| | - Alexander L Bond
- Bird Group, Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 6AP, United Kingdom
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111
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Gündoğdu S, Çevik C, Ayat B, Aydoğan B, Karaca S. How microplastics quantities increase with flood events? An example from Mersin Bay NE Levantine coast of Turkey. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 239:342-350. [PMID: 29674212 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.04.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Floods caused by heavy rain carry significant amounts of pollutants into marine environments. This study evaluates the effect of multiple floods that occurred in the northeastern Mediterranean region in Turkey between December 2016 and January 2017 on the microplastic pollution in the Mersin Bay. Sampling was repeated in four different stations both before and after the flood period, and it was determined that in the four stations, there was an average of 539,189 MPs/km2 before the flood, and 7,699,716 MPs/km2 afterwards, representing a 14-fold increase. Fourteen different polymer types were detected in an ATR FT-IR analysis, eight of which were not found in samples collected before the floods. The most common polymer type was identified as polyethylene both pre- and post-flood. The mean particle size, which was 2.37 mm in the pre-flood period, decreased to 1.13 mm in the post-flood period. A hydrodynamic modeling study was implemented to hindcast the current structure and the spatial and temporal distributions of microplastics within the study area. In conclusion, heavy rain and severe floods can dramatically increase the microplastic levels in the sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedat Gündoğdu
- Cukurova University, Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330, Adana, Turkey.
| | - Cem Çevik
- Cukurova University, Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330, Adana, Turkey
| | - Berna Ayat
- Department of Civil Engineering, Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Burak Aydoğan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serkan Karaca
- Cukurova University, Department of Chemistry, 01330, Adana, Turkey
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112
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Maes T, Barry J, Leslie HA, Vethaak AD, Nicolaus EEM, Law RJ, Lyons BP, Martinez R, Harley B, Thain JE. Below the surface: Twenty-five years of seafloor litter monitoring in coastal seas of North West Europe (1992-2017). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 630:790-798. [PMID: 29494980 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.02.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter presents a global problem, with increasing quantities documented in recent decades. The distribution and abundance of marine litter on the seafloor off the United Kingdom's (UK) coasts were quantified during 39 independent scientific surveys conducted between 1992 and 2017. Widespread distribution of litter items, especially plastics, were found on the seabed of the North Sea, English Channel, Celtic Sea and Irish Sea. High variation in abundance of litter items, ranging from 0 to 1835 pieces km-2 of seafloor, was observed. Plastic tems such as bags, bottles and fishing related debris were commonly observed across all areas. Over the entire 25-year period (1992-2017), 63% of the 2461 trawls contained at least one plastic litter item. There was no significant temporal trend in the percentage of trawls containing any or total plastic litter items across the long-term datasets. Statistically significant trends, however, were observed in specific plastic litter categories only. These trends were all positive except for a negative trend in plastic bags in the Greater North Sea - suggesting that behavioural and legislative changes could reduce the problem of marine litter within decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Maes
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK; Dept. of Environment and Health, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - J Barry
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - H A Leslie
- Dept. of Environment and Health, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A D Vethaak
- Dept. of Environment and Health, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Deltares, Boussinesqweg 1, 2629 HV Delft, The Netherlands
| | - E E M Nicolaus
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - R J Law
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK; Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - B P Lyons
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, The Nothe, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - R Martinez
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - B Harley
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - J E Thain
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, The Nothe, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
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113
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Gutow L, Ricker M, Holstein JM, Dannheim J, Stanev EV, Wolff JO. Distribution and trajectories of floating and benthic marine macrolitter in the south-eastern North Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 131:763-772. [PMID: 29887004 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In coastal waters the identification of sources, trajectories and deposition sites of marine litter is often hampered by the complex oceanography of shallow shelf seas. We conducted a multi-annual survey on litter at the sea surface and on the seafloor in the south-eastern North Sea. Bottom trawling was identified as a major source of marine litter. Oceanographic modelling revealed that the distribution of floating litter in the North Sea is largely determined by the site of origin of floating objects whereas the trajectories are strongly influenced by wind drag. Methods adopted from species distribution modelling indicated that resuspension of benthic litter and near-bottom transport processes strongly influence the distribution of litter on the seafloor. Major sink regions for floating marine litter were identified at the west coast of Denmark and in the Skagerrak. Our results may support the development of strategies to reduce the pollution of the North Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Gutow
- Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570 Bremerhaven, Germany.
| | - Marcel Ricker
- University of Oldenburg, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße 9-11, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Jan M Holstein
- Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570 Bremerhaven, Germany; Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity, Ammerlander Heerstraße 231, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Jennifer Dannheim
- Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570 Bremerhaven, Germany; Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity, Ammerlander Heerstraße 231, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Emil V Stanev
- Institute of Coastal Research, Helmholtz Centre Geesthacht, Max-Planck-Straße 1, 21502 Geesthacht, Germany
| | - Jörg-Olaf Wolff
- University of Oldenburg, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße 9-11, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
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114
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Garcia-Vazquez E, Cani A, Diem A, Ferreira C, Geldhof R, Marquez L, Molloy E, Perché S. Leave no traces - Beached marine litter shelters both invasive and native species. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 131:314-322. [PMID: 29886952 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter has been considered a potential transport vector of non-indigenous species. In this study developed in Tjärnö (Sweden), at the entry of the Baltic Sea, the communities inhabiting coastal litter and natural substrates (N = 5448 macroorganisms) were monitored from eight sites of different ecological conditions. The results showed that litter can support high densities of marine organisms and represent a new habitat in the studied coast. The taxonomic profile of the communities supported by marine litter and hard natural substrate were significantly different. Moreover, opposite to the expectations of reduced diversity in artificial structures, more diverse communities were found on litter. Non-indigenous species were attached mainly to non-plastic artificial materials. From these results it can be concluded that marine litter can significantly alter the biotic composition of coastal ecosystem, representing a shelter for invasive species and diverse natives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Garcia-Vazquez
- University of Oviedo, Department of Functional Biology, Natural Resources Research Group, C/ Julian Claveria s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain.
| | - Alessandra Cani
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Anna Diem
- Ghent University, Faculty of Sciences, Marine Biology Research Group, Campus Sterre S8, Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Catarina Ferreira
- Ghent University, Faculty of Sciences, Marine Biology Research Group, Campus Sterre S8, Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ruben Geldhof
- Ghent University, Faculty of Sciences, Marine Biology Research Group, Campus Sterre S8, Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lidia Marquez
- University of Oviedo, Department of Functional Biology, Natural Resources Research Group, C/ Julian Claveria s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Eoin Molloy
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Sarah Perché
- ILVO, Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Oostende, Belgium
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115
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Martin C, Parkes S, Zhang Q, Zhang X, McCabe MF, Duarte CM. Use of unmanned aerial vehicles for efficient beach litter monitoring. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 131:662-673. [PMID: 29886994 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A global beach litter assessment is challenged by use of low-efficiency methodologies and incomparable protocols that impede data integration and acquisition at a national scale. The implementation of an objective, reproducible and efficient approach is therefore required. Here we show the application of a remote sensing based methodology using a test beach located on the Saudi Arabian Red Sea coastline. Litter was recorded via image acquisition from an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, while an automatic processing of the high volume of imagery was developed through machine learning, employed for debris detection and classification in three categories. Application of the method resulted in an almost 40 times faster beach coverage when compared to a standard visual-census approach. While the machine learning tool faced some challenges in correctly detecting objects of interest, first classification results are promising and motivate efforts to further develop the technique and implement it at much larger scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Martin
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Stephen Parkes
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Qiannan Zhang
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Xiangliang Zhang
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Matthew F McCabe
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Carlos M Duarte
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
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116
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Cardozo ALP, Farias EGG, Rodrigues-Filho JL, Moteiro IB, Scandolo TM, Dantas DV. Feeding ecology and ingestion of plastic fragments by Priacanthus arenatus: What's the fisheries contribution to the problem? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 130:19-27. [PMID: 29866546 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 03/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Atlantic Bigeye (Priacanthus arenatus) is a demersal species from the Priacanthidae family with little literature relating to its biology and catch aspects. Due to this lack of research, the focus of this effort was to describe the feeding preferences of Atlantic Bigeye and to evaluate the influence of plastic debris derived from the local fisheries activities on its diet. The most important items were Corophiidae, Penaeidae, Actinopterygii, Isopoda, Cephalopoda, Policheta and plastic. Plastic was present in 49.17% of the stomachs analyzed. A total of 210 plastic fragments were found, and 63% were derived from fishing. Of those, 55% were derived from paint fragments from vessels and 8% from synthetic fibers (PA). The results suggest that plastic fragments found in stomachs are related to the species' natural diet and that this debris is locally deposited in the coastal environment. Fishing resources appear to have been affected by this local marine pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L P Cardozo
- Grupo de Tecnologia e Ciência Pesqueira (TECPESCA), Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca e Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, R. Cel. Fernandes Martins, 270, Laguna, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Eduardo G G Farias
- Grupo de Tecnologia e Ciência Pesqueira (TECPESCA), Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca e Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, R. Cel. Fernandes Martins, 270, Laguna, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Jorge L Rodrigues-Filho
- Grupo de Tecnologia e Ciência Pesqueira (TECPESCA), Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca e Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, R. Cel. Fernandes Martins, 270, Laguna, Santa Catarina, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Planejamento Territorial e Desenvolvimento Socioambiental (PPGPLAN)/UDESC/FAED, Brazil
| | - Isabel B Moteiro
- Grupo de Tecnologia e Ciência Pesqueira (TECPESCA), Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca e Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, R. Cel. Fernandes Martins, 270, Laguna, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Tatianny M Scandolo
- Grupo de Tecnologia e Ciência Pesqueira (TECPESCA), Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca e Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, R. Cel. Fernandes Martins, 270, Laguna, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - David V Dantas
- Grupo de Tecnologia e Ciência Pesqueira (TECPESCA), Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca e Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, R. Cel. Fernandes Martins, 270, Laguna, Santa Catarina, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Planejamento Territorial e Desenvolvimento Socioambiental (PPGPLAN)/UDESC/FAED, Brazil.
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117
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Arcangeli A, Campana I, Angeletti D, Atzori F, Azzolin M, Carosso L, Di Miccoli V, Giacoletti A, Gregorietti M, Luperini C, Paraboschi M, Pellegrino G, Ramazio M, Sarà G, Crosti R. Amount, composition, and spatial distribution of floating macro litter along fixed trans-border transects in the Mediterranean basin. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 129:545-554. [PMID: 29042107 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a major source of pollution in the Mediterranean basin, but despite legislative requirements, scant information is available for the ongoing assessment of this threat. Using higher size classes as proxy for litter distribution, this study gave a synoptic estimation of the amount, composition, and distribution of floating macro-litter in the Mediterranean. The average amount of macro-litter was in a range of 2-5items/km2, with the highest in the Adriatic basin. Seasonal patterns were present in almost all study areas and were significant in the Ligurian Sea, Sardinian-Balearic basin, and Central Tyrrhenian Sea. Plastic accounted for >80% of litter in all areas and seasons, with the highest proportion in the Adriatic Sea, Ligurian Sea, and Sicilian-Sardinian Channels; in the Bonifacio Strait, Tyrrhenian Sea, and Sardinian-Balearic basin, litter composition was instead more diverse. Spatial analysis suggested an almost homogeneous distribution of litter without evident regular aggregation zones.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ilaria Campana
- Tuscia University, Dept. of Ecological and Biological Sciences, Ichthyogenic Experimental Marine Center (CISMAR), Borgo Le Saline, 01016 Tarquinia, VT, Italy; Accademia del Leviatano, V.le dell'Astronomia 19, 00144, Roma, Italy
| | - Dario Angeletti
- Tuscia University, Dept. of Ecological and Biological Sciences, Ichthyogenic Experimental Marine Center (CISMAR), Borgo Le Saline, 01016 Tarquinia, VT, Italy; Centro Interuniversitario di Ricerca sui Cetacei (CIRCE), V.le Benedetto XV 5, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | | | - Marta Azzolin
- Gaia Research Institut Onlus, Corso Moncalieri 68B, Torino, Italy
| | - Lara Carosso
- Accademia del Leviatano, V.le dell'Astronomia 19, 00144, Roma, Italy; AMP Capo Carbonara, via Roma 60, Villasimius (CA), Italy
| | - Valentina Di Miccoli
- Tuscia University, Dept. of Ecological and Biological Sciences, Ichthyogenic Experimental Marine Center (CISMAR), Borgo Le Saline, 01016 Tarquinia, VT, Italy; Accademia del Leviatano, V.le dell'Astronomia 19, 00144, Roma, Italy
| | - Antonio Giacoletti
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DiSTeM), Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Luperini
- Accademia del Leviatano, V.le dell'Astronomia 19, 00144, Roma, Italy
| | - Miriam Paraboschi
- Accademia del Leviatano, V.le dell'Astronomia 19, 00144, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Martina Ramazio
- Accademia del Leviatano, V.le dell'Astronomia 19, 00144, Roma, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sarà
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DiSTeM), Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto Crosti
- MATTM, Waste Directorate, Via C. Colombo 44, Rome, Italy
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118
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Prevenios M, Zeri C, Tsangaris C, Liubartseva S, Fakiris E, Papatheodorou G. Beach litter dynamics on Mediterranean coasts: Distinguishing sources and pathways. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 129:448-457. [PMID: 29029981 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We assessed amounts, composition and net accumulation rates every ~15days of beach macro litter (≥2.5cm) on 4 Mediterranean beaches, on Corfu island, N. Ionian Sea, taking into account natural and anthropogenic drivers. Average net accumulation rate on all beaches was found 142±115N/100m/15d. By applying a Generalized Linear Model (GzLM) it was shown that sea transport is the dominant pathway affecting the amount and variability in beach litter loadings. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) on compositional data and indicator items discerned two more pathways of beach litter, i.e. in situ litter from beach goers and wind and/or runoff transport of litter from land. By comparing the PCA results to those from a simple item to source attribution, it is shown that regardless their source litter items arrive at beaches from various pathways. Our data provide baseline knowledge for designing monitoring strategies and for setting management targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Prevenios
- Institute of Oceanography, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), 19013 Anavyssos, Greece; Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - Christina Zeri
- Institute of Oceanography, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), 19013 Anavyssos, Greece.
| | - Catherine Tsangaris
- Institute of Oceanography, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), 19013 Anavyssos, Greece
| | | | - Elias Fakiris
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - George Papatheodorou
- Laboratory of Marine Geology and Physical Oceanography, Department of Geology, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
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119
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Ogunola OS, Onada OA, Falaye AE. Mitigation measures to avert the impacts of plastics and microplastics in the marine environment (a review). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:9293-9310. [PMID: 29470754 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1499-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The increasing demand for and reliance on plastics as an everyday item, and rapid rise in their production and subsequent indiscriminate disposal, rise in human population and industrial growth, have made the material an important environmental concern and focus of interest of many research. Historically, plastic production has increased tremendously to over 250 million tonnes by 2009 with an annual increased rate of 9%. In 2015, the global consumption of plastic materials was reported to be > 300 million tonnes and is expected to surge exponentially. Because plastic polymers are ubiquitous, highly resistant to degradation, the influx of these persistent, complex materials is a risk to human and environmental health. Because microplastics are principally generated from the weathering or breakdown of larger plastics (macroplastics), it is noteworthy and expedient to discuss in detail, expatiate, and tackle this main source. Macro- and microplastic pollution has been reported on a global scale from the poles to the equator. The major problem of concern is that they strangulate and are ingested by a number of aquatic biota especially the filter feeders, such as molluscs, mussels, oysters, from where it enters the food chain and consequently could lead to physical and toxicological effects on aquatic organisms and human being as final consumers. To this end, in order to minimise the negative impacts posed by plastic pollution (macro- and microplastics), a plethora of strategies have been developed at various levels to reduce and manage the plastic wastes. The objective of this paper is to review some published literature on management measures of plastic wastes to curb occurrence and incidents of large- and microplastics pollution in the marine environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluniyi Solomon Ogunola
- MSc International Studies in Aquatic Tropical Ecology, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
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120
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McWilliams M, Liboiron M, Wiersma Y. Rocky shoreline protocols miss microplastics in marine debris surveys (Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 129:480-486. [PMID: 29033168 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Most anthropogenic marine debris shoreline studies are conducted on sandy shores, rather than rocky coastlines. We amended a standardized protocol for monitoring marine debris on a high-loading beach composed of small rocks and cobbles in Newfoundland, Canada. Our protocol had two parts: we conducted stratified sampling to a depth of ~20cm below the surface of the rocks (standing survey), and surveyed accumulation of items on the surface of rocks every other day (loading survey). We found the vast majority of smaller items were below the surface. Only 17.2% of debris were microplastics (<5mm). Types of anthropogenic debris differed significantly between the standing survey and the loading survey. We found no relationship between either wind direction or wind speed, and distributions of debris. This study allows for a better understanding of marine debris detection along rocky coasts, and the limitations of protocols for studying them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt McWilliams
- Department of Biology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador A1B 3X9, Canada; Program in Environmental Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Max Liboiron
- Department of Geography, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador A1B 3X9, Canada; Program in Environmental Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
| | - Yolanda Wiersma
- Department of Biology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador A1B 3X9, Canada; Program in Environmental Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
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121
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Campana I, Angeletti D, Crosti R, Di Miccoli V, Arcangeli A. Seasonal patterns of floating macro-litter across the Western Mediterranean Sea: a potential threat for cetacean species. RENDICONTI LINCEI-SCIENZE FISICHE E NATURALI 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12210-018-0680-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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122
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Jang YC, Ranatunga RRMKP, Mok JY, Kim KS, Hong SY, Choi YR, Gunasekara AJM. Composition and abundance of marine debris stranded on the beaches of Sri Lanka: Results from the first island-wide survey. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 128:126-131. [PMID: 29571355 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study provides the first assessment of marine debris washed ashore on 22 beaches along the coast of Sri Lanka. There was an average of 4.1 large (>25 mm) and 158 small (5-25 mm) pieces of debris per square meter of beach. Classified by use, packaging material (55%) dominated the debris, followed by consumer products (25%) and fishing gear (20%). In terms of materials, plastic was the greatest contributor (93%) to marine debris. Beaches near a river mouth or city and those with a barrier had greater debris accumulations. The east coast had significantly greater small debris density, possibly due to strong northeastern monsoon currents. Large spatial heterogeneity was observed in the amount of debris. Long-term monitoring is imperative to better understand the temporal changes in, and the pathways and possible management of, marine debris.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jin Yong Mok
- Korea Maritime Institute, Busan 49111, South Korea
| | | | - Su Yeon Hong
- Ocean Research Institute, Tong Yeong 53027, South Korea
| | - Young Rae Choi
- Florida International University, Miami 33199, United States
| | - A J M Gunasekara
- Marine Environment Protection Authority, Baseline Rd, Colombo 00900, Sri Lanka
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123
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Schneider F, Parsons S, Clift S, Stolte A, McManus MC. Collected marine litter - A growing waste challenge. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 128:162-174. [PMID: 29571359 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter, in particular plastic debris, poses a serious threat to marine life, human health and the economy. In order to reduce its impact, marine litter collections such as beach clean-ups are frequently conducted. This paper presents a systematic review of temporal developments, geographical distribution, quantities and waste treatment pathways of collected marine litter. Results from over 130 studies and projects highlight the worldwide increase in collection efforts. Many of these are in wealthy countries that do not primarily contribute to the problem. Over 250 thousand tonnes, have already been removed, but there is little or no information available regarding how this waste is treated or used post collection. This paper highlights the need for a whole-system quantitative assessment for the collection and waste treatment of marine litter, and identifies the challenges associated with utilising this waste in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Schneider
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom.
| | - Sophie Parsons
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Sally Clift
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Stolte
- WWF Germany, WWF-Ostseebüro, Knieperwall 1, 18439 Stralsund, Germany
| | - Marcelle C McManus
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
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124
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Heery EC, Olsen AY, Feist BE, Sebens KP. Urbanization-related distribution patterns and habitat-use by the marine mesopredator, giant Pacific octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini). Urban Ecosyst 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11252-018-0742-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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125
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Rangel-Buitrago N, Williams A, Anfuso G. Killing the goose with the golden eggs: Litter effects on scenic quality of the Caribbean coast of Colombia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 127:22-38. [PMID: 29475658 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
137 coastal sites located along the Caribbean coast of Colombia were surveyed to determine scenic quality, litter content, and typology. Scenic evaluation categorized sites into five classes. 26 appeared in Class I; 18 in Class II; 19 in Class III; 30 in class IV; and 44 in Class V. Beach type was categorized into urban (31), resort (18), rural (46), village (32) and remote (10). Litter gave 17 sites an "A" grade (excellent); 34 sites a "B" grade; 53 sites a "C" grade and 33 locations a "D" grade (poor). Almost all sites surveyed have a low scenic quality and also significant litter content. Currently, litter directly produces aesthetic problems along the study area, and improvements are necessary to favor coastal scenic quality. Stakeholders should make a significant effort to improve the scenic human parameters along the study area, litter removal and prevention being the most important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Departamentos de Física - Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Km 7 Antigua vía Puerto Colombia, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - Allan Williams
- Faculty of Architecture, Computing, and Engineering, University of Wales: Trinity Saint David (Swansea), SA1 6ED, Mount Pleasant, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom; Interdisciplinary Centre of Social Sciences, (CICS.NOVA.FCSH/UNL) Avenida de Berna, 26 C, 1069-061 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Giorgio Anfuso
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Tierra, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, Universidad de Cádiz, Polígono Río San Pedro s/n, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
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126
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Smith SDA, Banister K, Fraser N, Edgar RJ. Tracing the source of marine debris on the beaches of northern New South Wales, Australia: The Bottles on Beaches program. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 126:304-307. [PMID: 29421101 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Identifying the source of marine plastic pollution accumulating on ocean beaches is often difficult as unidentifiable fragments of plastic usually predominate. In this study, we surveyed plastic bottles as a relatively identifiable subset of plastics on 30km of beach along a 200-km section of the north coast of New South Wales, Australia. Source and product type (contents) were determined using barcodes, inscriptions/embossing, or bottle shape and characteristics. Country of origin and product type could be determined for two-thirds of the 694 bottles found. Just over half (51%) of these were of domestic origin with the remainder dominated by bottles from China (24%) and south-east Asian countries (21%). As most of the foreign bottles lacked marine growth, and are unavailable for purchase in the region, passing ships are hypothesised as the primary source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen D A Smith
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia.
| | - Kelsey Banister
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicola Fraser
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert J Edgar
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia
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127
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Hidalgo-Ruz V, Honorato-Zimmer D, Gatta-Rosemary M, Nuñez P, Hinojosa IA, Thiel M. Spatio-temporal variation of anthropogenic marine debris on Chilean beaches. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 126:516-524. [PMID: 29421133 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
We examined the hypothesis that in an emerging economy such as Chile the abundances of Anthropogenic Marine Debris (AMD) on beaches are increasing over time. The citizen science program Científicos de la Basura ("Litter Scientists") conducted three national surveys (2008, 2012 and 2016) to determine AMD composition, abundance, spatial patterns and temporal trends. AMD was found on all beaches along the entire Chilean coast. Highest percentages of AMD in all surveys were plastics and cigarette butts, which can be attributed to local sources (i.e. beach users). The Antofagasta region in northern Chile had the highest abundance of AMD compared with all other zones. Higher abundances of AMD were found at the upper stations from almost all zones. No significant tendency of increasing or decreasing AMD densities was observed during the 8years covered by our study, which suggests that economic development alone cannot explain temporal trends in AMD densities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Hidalgo-Ruz
- Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Colegio San Adrián de Quilicura, Lo Ovalle 275, Quilicura, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniela Honorato-Zimmer
- Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile
| | | | - Paloma Nuñez
- Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile
| | - Iván A Hinojosa
- Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Millennium Nucleus Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Island (ESMOI), Coquimbo, Chile; Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Alonso de Ribera 2850, Concepción, Chile
| | - Martin Thiel
- Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Millennium Nucleus Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Island (ESMOI), Coquimbo, Chile.
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128
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Perez-Venegas D, Pavés H, Pulgar J, Ahrendt C, Seguel M, Galbán-Malagón CJ. Coastal debris survey in a Remote Island of the Chilean Northern Patagonia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 125:530-534. [PMID: 28951055 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Global marine litter pollution is increasing dramatically, and oceanic islands are one of the most vulnerable ecosystems due to their high debris accumulation rate compared to continental sites. Remote areas, such as inhabited islands, represent a perfect study case to track marine debris sources, due to the assumed low rates of local production of debris. Guafo Island is one of the largest islands of the Chilean Northern Patagonia and is considered a remote zone. The accessible coast of Guafo Island was monitored during four austral summers revealing higher levels of marine debris accumulation than continental Chile. Plastic was the most abundant type of debris constituting 50% of the total litter monitored. Our results suggest that most of the plastic identified is likely to be related to local fisheries activities. Mitigation measures including collaboration among fishing communities and scientists could contribute to reduce the coastal debris pollution in remote areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Perez-Venegas
- Programa de Doctorado en Medicina de la Conservación, Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile; Departamento de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - H Pavés
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicias, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Los Carrera 753, Osorno, Chile
| | - J Pulgar
- Departamento de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - C Ahrendt
- Departamento de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Seguel
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - C J Galbán-Malagón
- Departamento de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile; Fundación MERI, Av. Kennedy 5682, Vitacura, Santiago, Chile.
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129
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Rudduck OA, Lavers JL, Fischer AM, Stuckenbrock S, Sharp PB, Banati RB. Inter-annual variation in the density of anthropogenic debris in the Tasman Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 124:51-55. [PMID: 28693807 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of studies highlight the risk of plastic pollution in the marine environment. However, systematic longitudinal data on the distribution and abundance of plastic debris remain sparse. Here we present the results of a two-year study of plastic pollution within the Tasman Sea, contrasted with a further year of data from the same region, in order to document how the density of debris varies across years in this area. Surface net tows were collected between Hobart, Tasmania and Sydney, Australia during the spring of 2013 and 2014 and compared with a subset of data from autumn 2012 from the same region. Substantial inter-annual variation in mean plastic abundance was observed over the three year period, ranging from to 248.04-3711.64pieceskm-2, confirming the need for multiple years of sampling to fully estimate the extent of, and trends in, plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osha-Ann Rudduck
- Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Old School Road, Newnham, Tasmania 7250, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Lavers
- Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia.
| | - Andrew M Fischer
- Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Old School Road, Newnham, Tasmania 7250, Australia
| | - Silke Stuckenbrock
- Two Hands Project, PO Box 4296, North Curl Curl, New South Wales 2101, Australia
| | - Paul B Sharp
- Two Hands Project, PO Box 4296, North Curl Curl, New South Wales 2101, Australia
| | - Richard B Banati
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Life Sciences Division Bioanalytics Group, Lucas Heights, New South Wales 2234, Australia
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130
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Portman ME, Brennan RE. Marine litter from beach-based sources: Case study of an Eastern Mediterranean coastal town. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 69:535-544. [PMID: 28797626 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2017.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 07/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter has been a serious and growing problem for some decades now. Yet, there is still much speculation among researchers, policy makers and planners about how to tackle marine litter from land-based sources. This paper provides insights into approaches for managing marine litter by reporting and analyzing survey results of litter dispersal and makeup from three areas along an Arab-Israeli coastal town in view of other recent studies conducted around the Mediterranean Sea. Based on our results and analysis, we posit that bathing beach activities should be a high priority for waste managers as a point of intervention and beach-goers must be encouraged to take a more active role in keeping beaches clean. Further, plastic fragments on the beach should be targeted as a first priority for prevention (and cleanup) of marine litter with plastic bottle caps being a high priority to be targeted among plastics. More survey research is needed on non-plastic litter composition for which amounts and geographic dispersal in the region vary greatly from place to place along Mediterranean shores. In general, findings of this study lead us to recommend exploring persuasive beach trash can design coupled with greater enforcement for short term waste management intervention while considering the local socio-economic and institutional context further for long-term efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle E Portman
- Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion City, Haifa 3200003, Israel.
| | - Ruth E Brennan
- Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion City, Haifa 3200003, Israel; Centre for Environmental Humanities, School of Histories and Humanities, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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131
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Campbell ML, King S, Heppenstall LD, van Gool E, Martin R, Hewitt CL. Aquaculture and urban marine structures facilitate native and non-indigenous species transfer through generation and accumulation of marine debris. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 123:304-312. [PMID: 28830626 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Both the invasion of non-indigenous marine species (NIMS) and the generation and accumulation of anthropogenic marine debris (AMD) are pervasive problems in coastal urban ecosystems. The biosecurity risks associated with AMD rafting NIMS have been described, but the role of aquaculture derived AMD has not yet been investigated as a biosecurity vector and pathway. This preliminary study targeted 27 beaches along the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand, collecting debris from belt transects. Plastic (specifically plastic rope) was the dominant AMD present on beaches. The most common biofouling taxa were hydroids, bryozoans, algae and polychaetes, with one NIMS pest species, Sabella spallanzanii, detected fouling plastic rope. Our findings demonstrate that aquaculture is an AMD (plastic rope) generating activity that creates biosecurity risk by enhancing the spread of NIMS. The rafting of S. spallanzanii on AMD generated at aquaculture facilities is currently an unmanaged pathway within New Zealand that needs attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marnie L Campbell
- Environmental Research Institute, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand.
| | - Staci King
- School of Science, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Lara D Heppenstall
- Environmental Research Institute, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Ella van Gool
- Environmental Research Institute, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand; School of Science, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Ross Martin
- School of Science, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Chad L Hewitt
- Environmental Research Institute, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand; School of Science, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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132
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Watts AJR, Porter A, Hembrow N, Sharpe J, Galloway TS, Lewis C. Through the sands of time: Beach litter trends from nine cleaned north cornish beaches. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 228:416-424. [PMID: 28554031 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter and its accumulation on beaches is an issue of major current concern due to its significant environmental and economic impacts. Yet our understanding of spatio-temporal trends in beach litter and the drivers of these trends are currently limited by the availability of robust long term data sets. Here we present a unique data set collected systematically once a month, every month over a six year period for nine beaches along the North Coast of Cornwall, U.K. to investigate the key drivers of beach litter in the Bude, Padstow and Porthcothan areas. Overall, an average of 0.02 litter items m-2 per month were collected during the six year study, with Bude beaches (Summerleaze, Crooklets and Widemouth) the most impacted (0.03 ± 0.004 litter items m-2 per month). The amount of litter collected each month decreased by 18% and 71% respectively for Padstow (Polzeath, Trevone and Harlyn) and Bude areas over the 6 years, possibly related to the regular cleaning, however litter increased by 120% despite this monthly cleaning effort on the Padstow area beaches. Importantly, at all nine beaches the litter was dominated by small, fragmented plastic pieces and rope fibres, which account for 32% and 17% of all litter items collected, respectively. The weathered nature of these plastics indicates they have been in the marine environment for an extended period of time. So, whilst classifying the original source of these plastics is not possible, it can be concluded they are not the result of recent public littering. This data highlights both the extent of the marine litter problem and that current efforts to reduce littering by beach users will only tackle a fraction of this litter. Such information is vital for developing effective management strategies for beach and marine litter at both regional and global levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J R Watts
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences: Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, United Kingdom.
| | - Adam Porter
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences: Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Hembrow
- Keep Britain Tidy, Elizabeth House, The Pier, Wigan, WN3 4EX, United Kingdom
| | - Jolyon Sharpe
- Environment Service, Pydar House, Room 4A, Truro, Cornwall TR1 1XU, United Kingdom
| | - Tamara S Galloway
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences: Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Ceri Lewis
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences: Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
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133
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Terzi Y, Seyhan K. Seasonal and spatial variations of marine litter on the south-eastern Black Sea coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 120:154-158. [PMID: 28502454 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/22/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The south-eastern Black Sea coast in Turkey was evaluated for marine litter composition and density covering nine beaches during four seasons. The marine litter (>2cm in size), was collected from the coast and categorized into material and usage categories. The data analysis showed that plastic was the most abundant litter (≥61.65%) by count and weight followed by styrofoam and fabric. The marine litter density ranged from 0.03 to 0.58 with a mean (±SD) of 0.16±0.02 items/m2 by count. Based on weight, it varied between 0.44 and 14.74g/m2 with 3.35±1.63. The east side had a higher marine litter density than the west side with significant differences between beaches. The variations due to different seasons were not significant for any beach. The results of this study should provide baseline information about the coastal marine pollution and will assist the mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahya Terzi
- Department of Fisheries Technology Engineering, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon 61530, Turkey.
| | - Kadir Seyhan
- Department of Fisheries Technology Engineering, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon 61530, Turkey
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134
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Pietrelli L, Poeta G, Battisti C, Sighicelli M. Characterization of plastic beach debris finalized to its removal: a proposal for a recycling scheme. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:16536-16542. [PMID: 28589285 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-9440-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Characterization of beach debris is crucial to assess the strategy to answer questions such as recycling. With the aim to assess its use in a recycling scheme, in this note, we carried out a physical and chemical characterization of plastic litter from a pilot beach in Central Italy, using the FT-IR spectroscopy and thermoanalysis. Fourteen polymers, having mainly thermoplastic origin, were identified; among them, the most represented are polyethylene (41.7%) and polypropylene (36.9%). Chemical and mechanical degradation were clearly observed by an IR spectrum. The thermogravimetric analysis curve of the plastic blend shows the melting point at 120-140 °C, and degradation occurs almost totally in a one-step process within 300-500 °C. The high heating value of the plastic debris is 43.9 MJ kg-1. Polymer blends obtained by beach debris show mechanical properties similar to the virgin high-density polyethylene polymer. Following the beach plastic debris characterization, a recycling scheme was suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loris Pietrelli
- ENEA, CR Casaccia, Via Anguillarese, 301, S. Maria di Galeria, 00123, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Poeta
- Department of Science, Università degli studi Roma III, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Corrado Battisti
- 'Torre Flavia' LTER (Long Term Ecological Research), Protected Areas-Regional Park Service, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, Via Tiburtina, 691, 00159, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Sighicelli
- ENEA, CR Casaccia, Via Anguillarese, 301, S. Maria di Galeria, 00123, Rome, Italy
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135
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Suciu MC, Tavares DC, Costa LL, Silva MCL, Zalmon IR. Evaluation of environmental quality of sandy beaches in southeastern Brazil. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 119:133-142. [PMID: 28473210 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The effect of urbanization on the environmental quality of two sandy beaches was evaluated using metrics such as pH, dissolved oxygen, coliforms and solid waste. Urbanization effects on physicochemical metrics (pH and dissolved oxygen) were not significant. The coliforms concentration was below the established limit for primary contact, but it was significantly higher on beaches with highest recreational potential. Similarly, the abundance of solid waste was significantly higher in urbanized areas (~4.5 items/m2), and it was higher than what was found for 106 beaches worldwide. Plastic represented 84% of the total number of items and recreational activities were the main sources of debris (80%). Therefore, a balance between recreation and conservation actions, based on short-term (e.g. fines) and long-term measures (e.g. educational policies) is recommended. We demonstrate that the use of multiple metrics provides more robust estimates of the environmental quality of sandy beaches than a single impact metric.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjorie C Suciu
- University of North Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Alberto Lamego 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Davi C Tavares
- University of North Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Alberto Lamego 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Leonardo L Costa
- University of North Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Alberto Lamego 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Marianna C L Silva
- University of North Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Alberto Lamego 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Ilana R Zalmon
- University of North Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Alberto Lamego 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro 28013-602, Brazil.
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136
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Di-Méglio N, Campana I. Floating macro-litter along the Mediterranean French coast: Composition, density, distribution and overlap with cetacean range. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 118:155-166. [PMID: 28238484 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the composition, density and distribution of floating macro-litter along the Liguro-Provençal basin with respect to cetaceans presence. Survey transects were performed in summer between 2006 and 2015 from sailing vessels with simultaneous cetaceans observations. During 5171km travelled, 1993 floating items were recorded, widespread in the whole study area. Plastics was the predominant category, with bags/packaging always representing >45% of total items. Overall mean density (14.98 items/km2) was stable with significant increase reported only in 2010-2011; monthly analysis showed lower litter densities in July-September, suggesting possible seasonal patterns. Kernel density estimation for plastics revealed ubiquitous distribution rather than high accumulation areas, mainly due to the circulation dynamics of this area. The presence range of cetaceans (259 sightings, 6 species) corresponded by ~50% with plastic distribution, indicating high potential of interaction, especially in the eastern part of the area, but effective risks for marine species might be underrepresented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ilaria Campana
- EcoOcéan Institut, 18 Rue des Hospices, 34090 Montpellier, France; Tuscia University, Dep. of Ecological and Biological Sciences, Ichthyogenic Experimental Marine Center (CISMAR), Borgo Le Saline, 01016 Tarquinia, VT, Italy; Accademia del Leviatano, V.le dell'Astronomia 19, 00144 Rome, Italy.
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137
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Polasek L, Bering J, Kim H, Neitlich P, Pister B, Terwilliger M, Nicolato K, Turner C, Jones T. Marine debris in five national parks in Alaska. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 117:371-379. [PMID: 28202274 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.01.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Marine debris is a management issue with ecological and recreational impacts for agencies, especially on remote beaches not accessible by road. This project was implemented to remove and document marine debris from five coastal National Park Service units in Alaska. Approximately 80km of coastline were cleaned with over 10,000kg of debris collected. Marine debris was found at all 28 beaches surveyed. Hard plastics were found on every beach and foam was found at every beach except one. Rope/netting was the next most commonly found category, present at 23 beaches. Overall, plastic contributed to 60% of the total weight of debris. Rope/netting (14.6%) was a greater proportion of the weight from all beaches than foam (13.3%). Non-ferrous metal contributed the smallest amount of debris by weight (1.7%). The work forms a reference condition dataset of debris surveyed in the Western Arctic and the Gulf of Alaska within one season.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Polasek
- Alaska SeaLife Center, PO Box 1329, Seward, AK 99664, USA; School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, USA.
| | - J Bering
- Alaska SeaLife Center, PO Box 1329, Seward, AK 99664, USA
| | - H Kim
- Kenai Fjords National Park, PO Box 1221, Seward, AK 99664, USA
| | - P Neitlich
- Western Arctic National Parklands, 41A Wandling Road, Winthrop, WA 98862, USA
| | - B Pister
- Kenai Fjords National Park, PO Box 1221, Seward, AK 99664, USA
| | - M Terwilliger
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, PO Box 439, Copper Center, AK 99573, USA
| | - K Nicolato
- Katmai National Park and Preserve, PO Box 7, King Salmon, AK 99613, USA
| | - C Turner
- Katmai National Park and Preserve, PO Box 7, King Salmon, AK 99613, USA
| | - T Jones
- National Park Service, Alaska Regional Office, 240 W. 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, USA
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138
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Thushari GGN, Chavanich S, Yakupitiyage A. Coastal debris analysis in beaches of Chonburi Province, eastern of Thailand as implications for coastal conservation. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 116:121-129. [PMID: 28062096 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.12.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study quantified coastal debris along 3 beaches (Angsila, Bangsaen, Samaesarn) in eastern coast of Thailand. Debris samples were collected from lower and upper strata of these beaches during wet and dry seasons. The results showed that Bangsaen had the highest average debris density (15.5m-2) followed by Samaesarn (8.10m-2), and Angsila (5.54m-2). Among the 12 debris categories, the most abundant debris type was plastics (>45% of the total debris) in all beach locations. Coastal debris distribution was related to economic activities in the vicinity. Fishery and shell-fish aquaculture activities were primary sources of debris in Angsila while tourism activities were main sources in Bangsaen and Samaesarn. Site-specific pollution control mechanisms (environmental awareness, reuse and recycling) are recommended to reduce public littering. Management actions in Angsila should focus on fishery and shell-fish culture practices, while Bangsaen and Samaesarn should be directed toward leisure activities promoting waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gajahin Gamage Nadeeka Thushari
- Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Department of Animal Science, Uva Wellassa University, Passara Road, Badulla, Sri Lanka.
| | - Suchana Chavanich
- Reef Biology Research Group, Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Amararatne Yakupitiyage
- Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management, School of Environment, Resources and Development, Asian Institute of Technology, P.O. Box 4, Klongluang, Pathumthani, 12120, Thailand
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139
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Lévesque D, Cattaneo A, Deschamps G, Hudon C. In the eye of the beholder: Assessing the water quality of shoreline parks around the Island of Montreal through citizen science. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 579:978-988. [PMID: 27914646 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
As a part of the FreshWater Watch project aiming to promote volunteers' water monitoring in 25 cities around the world, St. Lawrence River water quality was characterized at 28 public shoreline parks around Montreal Island, Quebec, Canada. This involved training of 69 citizen scientists by researchers of the Université de Montréal in five one-day sessions. Shoreline sampling yielded 174 data points over three summers (May 2013 to November 2015). Water turbidity, nitrate and phosphate concentrations were measured in situ, together with the thickness and type of beach-cast vegetation, and the relative abundance of different types of beach litter. Data generated by citizen scientists provided 1) an overview of the water quality of the St. Lawrence and Des Prairies rivers around the Island of Montreal, 2) an estimation of the quantity and types of beach-cast aquatic plants and filamentous algae, and 3) novel insights into the distribution of the nuisance cyanobacterium Lyngbya wollei. Overall, half of the sites were classified as "good" being characterized by low turbidity, nitrate and phosphate concentrations, and little deposition of beach-cast vegetation. Lyngbya wollei was found at 57% of the sites, revealing a more frequent occurrence than initially anticipated. The amount of litter recorded along the shoreline was generally small, comprising items related to picnicking (cans/bottles), smoking, and fishing activities in most parks. Wind exposure and rain events explained a significant fraction of the variability in nutrient concentration and turbidity among sites and dates. Shoreline condition assessed from water quality and vegetation data from this study was not correlated, however, with the most serious problem of faecal coliform counts gathered by the City of Montreal. This assessment of the quality and utilization of shoreline parks provides additional information to support planning and management activities of municipalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Lévesque
- Université de Montréal GRIL, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - A Cattaneo
- Université de Montréal GRIL, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - G Deschamps
- Ville de Montréal, Service de l'environnement, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - C Hudon
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Montreal, QC H2Y 2E7, Canada.
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140
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Vincent A, Drag N, Lyandres O, Neville S, Hoellein T. Citizen science datasets reveal drivers of spatial and temporal variation for anthropogenic litter on Great Lakes beaches. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 577:105-112. [PMID: 27780593 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Accumulation of anthropogenic litter (AL) on marine beaches and its ecological effects have been a major focus of research. Recent studies suggest AL is also abundant in freshwater environments, but much less research has been conducted in freshwaters relative to oceans. The Adopt-a-BeachTM (AAB) program, administered by the Alliance for the Great Lakes, organizes volunteers to act as citizen scientists by collecting and maintaining data on AL abundance on Great Lakes beaches. Initial assessments of the AAB records quantified sources and abundance of AL on Lake Michigan beaches, and showed that plastic AL was >75% of AL on beaches across all five Great Lakes. However, AAB records have not yet been used to examine patterns of AL density and composition among beaches of all different substrate types (e.g., parks, rocky, sandy), across land-use categories (e.g., rural, suburban, urban), or among seasons (i.e., spring, summer, and fall). We found that most AL on beaches are consumer goods that most likely originate from beach visitors and nearby urban environments, rather than activities such as shipping, fishing, or illegal dumping. We also demonstrated that urban beaches and those with sand rather than rocks had higher AL density relative to other sites. Finally, we found that AL abundance is lowest during the summer, between the US holidays of Memorial Day (last Monday in May) and Labor Day (first Monday in September) at the urban beaches, while other beaches showed no seasonality. This research is a model for utilizing datasets collected by volunteers involved in citizen science programs, and will contribute to AL management by offering priorities for AL types and locations to maximize AL reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Vincent
- Department of Biology, Loyola University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nate Drag
- Alliance for the Great Lakes, Chicago, IL, USA
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141
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Abstract
Plastics contamination in the marine environment was first reported nearly 50 years ago, less than two decades after the rise of commercial plastics production, when less than 50 million metric tons were produced per year. In 2014, global plastics production surpassed 300 million metric tons per year. Plastic debris has been detected worldwide in all major marine habitats, in sizes from microns to meters. In response, concerns about risks to marine wildlife upon exposure to the varied forms of plastic debris have increased, stimulating new research into the extent and consequences of plastics contamination in the marine environment. Here, I present a framework to evaluate the current understanding of the sources, distribution, fate, and impacts of marine plastics. Despite remaining knowledge gaps in mass budgeting and challenges in investigating ecological impacts, the increasing evidence of the ubiquity of plastics contamination in the marine environment, the continued rapid growth in plastics production, and the evidence-albeit limited-of demonstrated impacts to marine wildlife support immediate implementation of source-reducing measures to decrease the potential risks of plastics in the marine ecosystem.
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142
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Poeta G, Battisti C, Bazzichetto M, Acosta ATR. The cotton buds beach: Marine litter assessment along the Tyrrhenian coast of central Italy following the marine strategy framework directive criteria. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2016; 113:266-270. [PMID: 27667174 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/18/2016] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
We assessed the annual accumulation rates of beach litter on the Tyrrhenian coast of central Italy, providing the characterization of litter following European standardized guidelines. Three different sites of a beach were sampled seasonally from spring 2014 to winter 2015. A total of 31,739 items were removed and classified into 103 categories. Plastic represented the majority (94.4%) of the collected items. We detected temporal and spatial differences in the abundance and composition of litter between seasons and between sites. Furthermore, we found that plastic cotton bud sticks composed >30% of the total amount of litter and, together with plastic and polystyrene pieces, made up >70% of the total items. Finally, our results led us to propose that the most effective strategy to reduce litter pollution is to devise specific management procedures focusing on the most abundant items.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Poeta
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Corrado Battisti
- "Torre Flavia Natural Monument" LTER (Long Term Environmental Research) Research Site, Servizio Aree protette - parchi regionali, Province of Rome, via Tiburtina, 691, 00159 Rome, Italy
| | - Manuele Bazzichetto
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze e Territorio, Università degli Studi del Molise, C.da Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, IS, Italy
| | - Alicia T R Acosta
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
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143
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Pasquini G, Ronchi F, Strafella P, Scarcella G, Fortibuoni T. Seabed litter composition, distribution and sources in the Northern and Central Adriatic Sea (Mediterranean). WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2016; 58:41-51. [PMID: 27614560 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2016.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Revised: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Detecting the origin of marine benthic litter is fundamental for developing policies aimed at achieving the Good Environmental Status in European Seas by 2020, as requested by the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The abundance and composition of benthic litter in the Northern and Central Adriatic Sea were investigated at 67 stations with bottom trawl nets. Average density of benthic litter was 913±80items/km2, ranking the Adriatic as one of the most polluted basins worldwide. Plastic was dominant in terms of numbers (80%) and weight (62%), and mainly consisted in bags, sheets and mussel nets. Higher quantities of litter were found in coastal areas, especially in front river mouths, coastal cities and mussel farms. In deep waters, litter hotspots were associated with most congested shipping lanes, indicating an additional litter input to the basin. Benthic litter composition resulted to be largely driven by the vicinity to local sources, i.e. mussel farming installations and most congested shipping routes. These findings provide useful insights to set measures to manage marine litter in the Adriatic region, and possibly to minimize this anthropogenic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Pasquini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biologiche, Geologiche e Ambientali (BiGeA), Università di Bologna, Bologna, P.zza di Porta San Donato 1, 40126 Bologna (BO), Italy; Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia (VE), Italy.
| | - Francesca Ronchi
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia (VE), Italy.
| | - Pierluigi Strafella
- Istituto di Scienze Marine - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (ISMAR-CNR), Ancona, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Scarcella
- Istituto di Scienze Marine - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (ISMAR-CNR), Ancona, Italy.
| | - Tomaso Fortibuoni
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Loc. Brondolo, 30015 Chioggia (VE), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale (OGS), Trieste, Italy.
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144
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Kain EC, Lavers JL, Berg CJ, Raine AF, Bond AL. Plastic ingestion by Newell's (Puffinus newelli) and wedge-tailed shearwaters (Ardenna pacifica) in Hawaii. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:23951-23958. [PMID: 27638797 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-7613-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The ingestion of plastic by seabirds has been used as an indicator of pollution in the marine environment. On Kaua'i, HI, USA, 50.0 % of Newell's (Puffinus newelli) and 76.9 % of wedge-tailed shearwater (Ardenna pacifica) fledglings necropsied during 2007-2014 contained plastic items in their digestive tract, while 42.1 % of adult wedge-tailed shearwaters had ingested plastic. For both species, the frequency of plastic ingestion has increased since the 1980s with some evidence that the mass and the number of items ingested per bird have also increased. The color of plastic ingested by the shearwaters was assessed relative to beach-washed plastics by using Jaccard's index (where J = 1 complete similarity). The color (J = 0.65-0.68) of items ingested by both species, and the type ingested by wedge-tailed shearwaters (J = 0.85-0.87), overlapped with plastic available in the local environment indicating moderate selection for plastic color and type. This study has shown that the Hawaiian populations of shearwaters, like many seabird species, provide useful but worrying insights into plastic pollution and the health of our oceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C Kain
- Kaua'i Endangered Seabird Recovery Project, 3900 Hanapepe Rd, Hanapepe, HI, 96716, USA
| | - Jennifer L Lavers
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania, 7004, Australia.
| | - Carl J Berg
- Kaua'i Chapter, Surfrider Foundation, PO Box 819, Waimea, HI, 96796, USA
| | - André F Raine
- Kaua'i Endangered Seabird Recovery Project, 3900 Hanapepe Rd, Hanapepe, HI, 96716, USA
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145
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Lozoya JP, Teixeira de Mello F, Carrizo D, Weinstein F, Olivera Y, Cedrés F, Pereira M, Fossati M. Plastics and microplastics on recreational beaches in Punta del Este (Uruguay): Unseen critical residents? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 218:931-941. [PMID: 27554983 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Revised: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Beaches are social-ecological systems that provide several services improving human well-being. However, as one of the major coastal interfaces they are subject to plastic pollution, one of the most significant global environmental threats at present. For the first time for Uruguayan beaches, this study assessed and quantified the accumulation of plastic and microplastic debris on sandy beaches of the major touristic destination Punta del Este during the austral spring of 2013. Aiming to provide valuable information for decision-making, we performed a detailed analysis of plastic debris, their eventual transport pathways to the coast (from land and sea), and the associated persistent pollutants. The results indicated that the smallest size fractions (<20 mm) were the dominant size range, with fragments and resin pellets as types with the highest number of items. PAHs and PCBs were found in plastic debris, and their levels did not differ from baseline values reported for similar locations. The abundance of plastic debris was significantly and positively correlated with both the presence of possible land-based sources (e.g. storm-water drains, beach bars, beach access, car parking, and roads), and dissipative beach conditions. The analysis of coastal currents suggested some potential deposition areas along Punta del Este, and particularly for resin pellets, although modeling was not conclusive. From a local management point of view, the development and use of indices that allow predicting trends in the accumulation of plastic debris would be critically useful. The time dimension (e.g. seasonal) should also be considered for this threat, being crucial for locations such as Uruguay, where the use of beaches increases significantly during the summer. This first diagnosis aims to generate scientific baseline, necessary for improved management of plastic litter on beaches and their watersheds.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Lozoya
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Manejo Costero Integrado del Cono Sur (C-MCISur), Centro Universitario de la Región Este (CURE), Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Tacuarembó entre Av. Artigas y Aparicio Saravia, 20000, Maldonado, Uruguay.
| | - F Teixeira de Mello
- Departamento de Ecología Teórica y Aplicada (CURE, UDELAR), Tacuarembó entre Av. Artigas y Aparicio Saravia, 20000, Maldonado, Uruguay.
| | - D Carrizo
- Centro de Astrobiología (INTA-CSIC), Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aeroespacial, Ctra de Torrejón a Ajalvir (km 4), 28850, Torrejón de Ardoz, Madrid, Spain.
| | - F Weinstein
- Centro Universitario de la Región Este (CURE-UDELAR), Tacuarembó entre Av. Artigas y Aparicio Saravia, 20000, Maldonado, Uruguay.
| | - Y Olivera
- Centro Universitario de la Región Este (CURE-UDELAR), Tacuarembó entre Av. Artigas y Aparicio Saravia, 20000, Maldonado, Uruguay.
| | - F Cedrés
- Centro Universitario de la Región Este (CURE-UDELAR), Tacuarembó entre Av. Artigas y Aparicio Saravia, 20000, Maldonado, Uruguay.
| | - M Pereira
- Centro Universitario de la Región Este (CURE-UDELAR), Tacuarembó entre Av. Artigas y Aparicio Saravia, 20000, Maldonado, Uruguay.
| | - M Fossati
- Instituto de Mecánica de los Fluidos e Ingeniería Ambiental (IMFIA), Facultad de Ingeniería (UDELAR), Julio Herrera y Reissig 565 (1º Subsuelo Ala Norte), 11300, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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146
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Castillo AB, Al-Maslamani I, Obbard JP. Prevalence of microplastics in the marine waters of Qatar. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2016; 111:260-267. [PMID: 27389452 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.06.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 05/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are firmly recognized as a ubiquitous and growing threat to marine biota and their associated marine habitats worldwide. The evidence of the prevalence of microplastics was documented for the first time in the marine waters of Qatar's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). An optimized and validated protocol was developed for the extraction of microplastics from plankton-rich seawater samples without loss of microplastic debris present and characterized using Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. In total 30 microplastic polymers have been identified with an average concentration of 0.71particlesm(-3) (range 0-3particlesm(-3)). Polypropylene, low density polyethylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyamide, polymethyl methacrylate, cellophane, and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene polymers were characterized with majority of the microplastics either granular shape, sizes ranging from 125μm to 1.82mm or fibrous with sizes from 150μm to 15.98mm. The microplastics are evident in areas where nearby anthropogenic activities, including oil-rig installations and shipping operations are present.
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147
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Veerasingam S, Saha M, Suneel V, Vethamony P, Rodrigues AC, Bhattacharyya S, Naik BG. Characteristics, seasonal distribution and surface degradation features of microplastic pellets along the Goa coast, India. CHEMOSPHERE 2016; 159:496-505. [PMID: 27341153 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.06.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pellets (MPPs) are ubiquitous contaminants, recognised as a serious threat to the biota in coastal, estuarine and marine environment. The distribution, abundance, weathering and chemical characteristics of MPPs on the beaches of Goa, and their transport to the coast during the southwest (SW) monsoon are discussed in this paper. MPP samples collected from six sandy beaches were categorised based on colour and polymer types using Stereoscope microscope and FTIR-ATR spectroscopy, respectively. White colour MPPs were the most abundant, and Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) were the dominant polymer types of MPPs deposited on all the beaches. Carbonyl index values showed that MPPs collected in June 2015 (representing SW monsoon) were 'new', whereas the MPPs collected in January 2015 were 'aged', showing that MPPs are arriving at Goa coast only during SW monsoon due to conducive hydrodynamic conditions. Characteristics of MPPs suggest that they could be originated primarily from ocean-based sources. The winds and surface currents during SW monsoon are the driving forces for the transportation and deposition of MPPs on the Goa beaches. The results of this study will be useful to the National 'Clean India' program for effective plastic debris removal management.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Veerasingam
- CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa 403 004, India.
| | - Mahua Saha
- CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa 403 004, India
| | - V Suneel
- CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa 403 004, India
| | - P Vethamony
- CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa 403 004, India
| | | | | | - B G Naik
- CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa 403 004, India
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148
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Veerasingam S, Mugilarasan M, Venkatachalapathy R, Vethamony P. Influence of 2015 flood on the distribution and occurrence of microplastic pellets along the Chennai coast, India. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2016; 109:196-204. [PMID: 27287866 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.05.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The sources, distribution, surface features, polymer composition and age of microplastic pellets (MPPs) in surface sediments along the Chennai coast during March 2015 (pre-Chennai flood) and November 2015 (post-Chennai flood) were characterised using a Stereoscopic microscope and FTIR-ATR spectroscopy. White MPPs were the most abundant, and specifically polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) were the dominant polymer types of MPPs found on the coast during both the times. The abundance of MPPs in November 2015 was three-fold higher than those found in March 2015, confirming that huge quantity of fresh MPPs washed through Cooum and Adyar rivers from land during the flood. The winds and surface currents during November were the driving forces for the transportation and deposition of MPPs from the sea to beaches. The results of this study will be useful to formulate beach MPPs litter management policies to effectively create long-term solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Veerasingam
- CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403 004, Goa, India.
| | - M Mugilarasan
- Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Venkatachalapathy
- Department of Physics, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar 608 102, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P Vethamony
- CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403 004, Goa, India
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149
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Aguilera MA, Broitman BR, Thiel M. Artificial breakwaters as garbage bins: Structural complexity enhances anthropogenic litter accumulation in marine intertidal habitats. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 214:737-747. [PMID: 27149151 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.04.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Coastal urban infrastructures are proliferating across the world, but knowledge about their emergent impacts is still limited. Here, we provide evidence that urban artificial reefs have a high potential to accumulate the diverse forms of litter originating from anthropogenic activities around cities. We test the hypothesis that the structural complexity of urban breakwaters, when compared with adjacent natural rocky intertidal habitats, is a driver of anthropogenic litter accumulation. We determined litter abundances at seven sites (cities) and estimated the structural complexity in both urban breakwaters and adjacent natural habitats from northern to central Chile, spanning a latitudinal gradient of ∼15° (18°S to 33°S). Anthropogenic litter density was significantly higher in coastal breakwaters when compared to natural habitats (∼15.1 items m(-2) on artificial reefs versus 7.4 items m(-2) in natural habitats) at all study sites, a pattern that was temporally persistent. Different litter categories were more abundant on the artificial reefs than in natural habitats, with local human population density and breakwater extension contributing to increase the probabilities of litter occurrence by ∼10%. In addition, structural complexity was about two-fold higher on artificial reefs, with anthropogenic litter density being highest at intermediate levels of structural complexity. Therefore, the spatial structure characteristic of artificial reefs seems to enhance anthropogenic litter accumulation, also leading to higher residence time and degradation potential. Our study highlights the interaction between coastal urban habitat modification by establishment of artificial reefs, and pollution. This emergent phenomenon is an important issue to be considered in future management plans and the engineering of coastal ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moisés A Aguilera
- Departamento de Biología Marina, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo, 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Ossandón 877, Coquimbo, Chile.
| | - Bernardo R Broitman
- Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Ossandón 877, Coquimbo, Chile
| | - Martin Thiel
- Departamento de Biología Marina, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo, 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Ossandón 877, Coquimbo, Chile
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150
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Williams AT, Randerson P, Di Giacomo C, Anfuso G, Macias A, Perales JA. Distribution of beach litter along the coastline of Cádiz, Spain. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2016; 107:77-87. [PMID: 27117354 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A total of 59 categories of litter items were found at 20 beaches (13 mechanically cleaned, 7 non-cleaned) in the Cádiz tourist environment, Spain. Cluster Analysis and Principal Components Analysis were used to highlight similarities and contrasts between sites and/or associations between litter categories. Multivariate analyses separated beaches according to the total numbers of litter items present. Non-cleaned sites showed a variety of litter category abundance with distinct origins and abundant, ubiquitous items (plastic and glass fragments). Of the 7 non-cleaned beaches (49 litter categories) river-mouth sites were distinct due with high numbers of litter items. The sheltered inner part of Cádiz Bay beaches had a wide range of litter type. Many sites were associated with locally deposited recreational litter categories; while industrial/commercial/fishing categories were abundant only at a few sites, indicating items transported onto the shore from the Guadalete river.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan Thomas Williams
- Faculty of Architecture, Computing and Engineering, University of Wales Trinity Saint David (Swansea), Mount Pleasant, Swansea, Wales, UK; CICS.NOVA, FCSH.UNL, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Peter Randerson
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Carlo Di Giacomo
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Tierra, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, Universidad de Cádiz, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Giorgio Anfuso
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Tierra, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, Universidad de Cádiz, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain.
| | - Ana Macias
- Área de Análisis Geográfico Regional, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, Universidad de Cádiz, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - José Antonio Perales
- Centro Andaluz de Ciencia y Tecnología Marinas, Departamento de Tecnologías del Medio Ambiente, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, Universidad de Cádiz, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
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