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de Lima RJC, Coutinho R. The Brazilian National Plan to Combat Marine Litter: A critical assessment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116785. [PMID: 39083915 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116785] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The Brazilian National Plan to Combat Marine Litter was launched in March 2019 and in its context, 577 campaigns were carried out to clean up beaches, rivers, estuaries and mangroves, until January 2023, at an estimated cost of US$ 16,733,000.00. The volume collected in four years represented only 0.0041 % of the total solid waste discharged annually in the maritime waters under the country's jurisdiction. The direct benefit to society was only US$ 173,751.41 at market value for the litter collected. Litter lesser than 2.5 cm was left out, not been characterized. The results achieved deserve reflection and critical evaluation, in order to allow improvements, serving as reference. The participation of around 43,000 people in cleanup campaigns is an indication of environmental citizenship and an asset that cannot be overlooked by managers, demanding focus, tangible results and benefits in terms of environmental quality, well-being and savings on public cleaning services costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robson Jose Calixto de Lima
- Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MMA), Esplanada dos Ministérios Bloco B, Brasilia, DF 90068-900, Brazil; Marine Biotecnology Program, Instituto de Estudos do Mar Almirante Paulo Moreira (IEAPM)/Federal University Fluminense (UFF), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Coutinho
- Department of Marine Biotecnology, Instituto de Estudos do Mar Almirante Paulo Moreira (IEAPM), Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Marine Biotecnology Program, Instituto de Estudos do Mar Almirante Paulo Moreira (IEAPM)/Federal University Fluminense (UFF), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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2
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de Bell S, Alejandre JC, Menzel C, Sousa-Silva R, Straka TM, Berzborn S, Bürck-Gemassmer M, Dallimer M, Dayson C, Fisher JC, Haywood A, Herrmann A, Immich G, Keßler CS, Köhler K, Lynch M, Marx V, Michalsen A, Mudu P, Napierala H, Nawrath M, Pfleger S, Quitmann C, Reeves JP, Rozario K, Straff W, Walter K, Wendelboe-Nelson C, Marselle MR, Oh RRY, Bonn A. Nature-based social prescribing programmes: opportunities, challenges, and facilitators for implementation. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 190:108801. [PMID: 38909402 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence on the health benefits of spending time in nature has highlighted the importance of provision of blue and green spaces where people live. The potential for health benefits offered by nature exposure, however, extends beyond health promotion to health treatment. Social prescribing links people with health or social care needs to community-based, non-clinical health and social care interventions to improve health and wellbeing. Nature-based social prescribing (NBSP) is a variant that uses the health-promoting benefits of activities carried out in natural environments, such as gardening and walking. Much current NBSP practice has been developed in the UK, and there is increasing global interest in its implementation. This requires interventions to be adapted for different contexts, considering the needs of populations and the structure of healthcare systems. METHODS This paper presents results from an expert group participatory workshop involving 29 practitioners, researchers, and policymakers from the UK and Germany's health and environmental sectors. Using the UK and Germany, two countries with different healthcare systems and in different developmental stages of NBSP practice, as case studies, we analysed opportunities, challenges, and facilitators for the development and implementation of NBSP. RESULTS We identified five overarching themes for developing, implementing, and evaluating NBSP: Capacity Building; Accessibility and Acceptability; Networks and Collaborations; Standardised Implementation and Evaluation; and Sustainability. We also discuss key strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for each overarching theme to understand how they could be developed to support NBSP implementation. CONCLUSIONS NBSP could offer significant public health benefits using available blue and green spaces. We offer guidance on how NBSP implementation, from wider policy support to the design and evaluation of individual programmes, could be adapted to different contexts. This research could help inform the development and evaluation of NBSP programmes to support planetary health from local and global scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siân de Bell
- Exeter HSDR Evidence Synthesis Centre, University of Exeter, 79 Heavitree Rd, Exeter EX2 4TH, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Claudia Menzel
- Rheinland-Pfälzische Technische Universität Kaiserslautern-Landau, Landau, Germany
| | - Rita Sousa-Silva
- Young Academy for Sustainability Research, Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 19, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Institute of Environmental Sciences, Department of Environmental Biology, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Tanja M Straka
- Institute of Ecology, Technische Universität Berlin, 12165 Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Berzborn
- Black Forest National Park, Schwarzwaldhochstraße 2, 77889 Seebach, Germany
| | - Max Bürck-Gemassmer
- KLUG (German Alliance for Climate Change and Health), Hainbuchenstr. 10a, 13465, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Chris Dayson
- Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S1 2LX, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica C Fisher
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NR, United Kingdom
| | - Annette Haywood
- Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research (SCHARR), School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 4DA, United Kingdom
| | - Alina Herrmann
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany; Institute for General Practice, University Hospital Cologne, Medical Faculty University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gisela Immich
- Chair of Public Health and Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany; Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian S Keßler
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Mary Lynch
- Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Viola Marx
- Dundee City Council, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Michalsen
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine and Nature-based Therapies, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pierpaolo Mudu
- WHO Regional Office for Europe, European Centre for Environment and Health, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hendrik Napierala
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Maximilian Nawrath
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Claudia Quitmann
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Kevin Rozario
- Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Institute of Biodiversity, Dornburger Straße 159, 07743 Jena, Germany; Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Ecosystem Services, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Leipzig University, Wilhelm Wundt Institute for Psychology, Neumarkt 9, 04109 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Straff
- Umweltbundesamt (German Environment Agency), Wörlitzer Pl. 1, 0684 Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Katie Walter
- Ullapool Medical Practice, NHS Highland, Ullapool, United Kingdom
| | | | - Melissa R Marselle
- Environmental Psychology Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Rui Ying Oh
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Ecosystem Services, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Aletta Bonn
- Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Institute of Biodiversity, Dornburger Straße 159, 07743 Jena, Germany; Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Ecosystem Services, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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3
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Savage J, Chamberlain A, Fellows M, Jones R, Letessier TB, Llewellyn F, Morritt D, Rowcliffe M, Koldewey H. Big brands impact small islands: Sources of plastic pollution in a remote and protected archipelago. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116476. [PMID: 38781799 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116476] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Remote islands are disproportionately affected by plastic pollution, often originating from elsewhere, so it is important to understand its origins, to stop debris entering the ocean at their source. We investigated the origins of beached plastic drink bottles in the Chagos Archipelago, a large remote Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the Indian Ocean. We recorded the brands, countries of manufacture, types of drink, and ages of plastic bottles and their lids. The prevalent type of drink was water, with items mostly manufactured in Indonesia, China, and the Maldives. The main brands were Danone and the Coca-Cola Company. We deduced that 10 % of the items originated from ships passing the archipelago, including all the items manufactured in China. The identification of the brands creating plastic pollution in remote MPAs with high biodiversity supports extended producer responsibility, one of the proposed policy development areas of the Global Plastics Treaty.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Savage
- Conservation and Policy, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom; Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom; Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham TW20 0EX, United Kingdom.
| | - A Chamberlain
- Conservation and Policy, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom
| | - M Fellows
- British Indian Ocean Territory Administration, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, King Charles Street, SW1A 2AH, United Kingdom
| | - R Jones
- Conservation and Policy, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom
| | - T B Letessier
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom
| | - F Llewellyn
- Conservation and Policy, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom
| | - D Morritt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham TW20 0EX, United Kingdom
| | - M Rowcliffe
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom
| | - H Koldewey
- Conservation and Policy, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom; Centre of Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, United Kingdom
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4
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Ahler JR, Busk H, Holm PM, Bricca A, Poulsen DV, Skou ST, Tang LH. Benefits and harms of structured outdoor physical activity for people with somatic or mental diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prev Med 2024; 183:107966. [PMID: 38641081 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.107966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the benefits and harms of structured outdoor physical activity (PA) for people living with one or more somatic or mental diseases. METHODS We identified articles from inception until Marts 2023 in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and CENTRAL and citation tracking in Web of Science. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies examining structured outdoor PA reporting physical function, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), pain or mental outcomes. We used random-effect meta-analyses and investigated heterogeneity in subgroups, sensitivity and meta-regression analyses. Observational studies and studies with insufficient data were summarized narratively. Certainty of evidence was assessed with GRADE. RESULTS From 4098 hits, 20 studies (19 RCTs and 1 cohort) were included (n: 1759 participants). Studies varied in type of disease and intervention. End of intervention results suggested a small effect on HRQOL (k = 10, SMD = 0.45, 95%CI: 0.19 to 0.71) and physical function (k = 14, SMD = 0.39, 95%CI: 0.13 to 0.64), while effects were moderate on mental outcomes (k = 13, SMD = -0.52, 95%CI: -0.82 to -0.23) favoring the outdoor intervention over comparators (no intervention, usual care, indoor PA or outdoor intervention without exercise). We were not able to conclude on outdoor interventions' effect on pain. Four studies reported adverse events including non-serious (pain, falls, fatigue) and serious (hospitalization, pneumonia). Certainty of evidence was overall very low. CONCLUSION Structured outdoor PA may improve HRQOL and physical function, as well as mental health outcomes. The very low certainty of evidence calls for high quality RCTs to determine benefits and harms of structured outdoor PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas R Ahler
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Henriette Busk
- Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Pætur M Holm
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Research Unit for Musculoskeletal Function and Physiotherapy, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Faroe Islands, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Alessio Bricca
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Research Unit for Musculoskeletal Function and Physiotherapy, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Dorthe V Poulsen
- Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Søren T Skou
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Research Unit for Musculoskeletal Function and Physiotherapy, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Lars H Tang
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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5
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Falk-Andersson J, Rognerud I, De Frond H, Leone G, Karasik R, Diana Z, Dijkstra H, Ammendolia J, Eriksen M, Utz R, Walker TR, Fürst K. Cleaning Up without Messing Up: Maximizing the Benefits of Plastic Clean-Up Technologies through New Regulatory Approaches. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:13304-13312. [PMID: 37638638 PMCID: PMC10501118 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c01885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
As the global plastics crisis grows, numerous technologies have been invented and implemented to recover plastic pollution from the environment. Although laudable, unregulated clean-up technologies may be inefficient and have unintended negative consequences on ecosystems, for example, through bycatch or removal of organic matter important for ecosystem functions. Despite these concerns, plastic clean-up technologies can play an important role in reducing litter in the environment. As the United Nations Environment Assembly is moving toward an international, legally binding treaty to address plastic pollution by 2024, the implementation of plastic clean-up technologies should be regulated to secure their net benefits and avoid unintended damages. Regulation can require environmental impact assessments and life cycle analysis to be conducted predeployment on a case-by-case basis to determine their effectiveness and impact and secure environmentally sound management. During operations catch-efficiency and bycatch of nonlitter items, as well as waste management of recovered litter, should be documented. Data collection for monitoring, research, and outreach to mitigate plastic pollution is recommended as added value of implementation of clean-up technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Idun Rognerud
- Norwegian Institute
for Water Research, Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
| | - Hannah De Frond
- University
of Toronto Trash Team, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A1, Canada
- Ocean Conservancy, Washington, D.C. 20036, United States
| | - Giulia Leone
- Ghent University, Research Group
Aquatic Ecology, Coupure
links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Flanders
Marine Institute, (VLIZ), InnovOcean Site, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400, Ostend, Belgium
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Aquatic Management, Havenlaan 88, 1000, Brussels, Belgium
- Research
Foundation − Flanders (FWO), Leuvenseweg 38, 1000, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rachel Karasik
- Nicholas
Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Zoie Diana
- Division of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the
Environment, Duke University Marine Laboratory, Duke University, Beaufort, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Integrated Toxicology
and Environmental Health, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Hanna Dijkstra
- Institute for Environmental Studies, Vrije
Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1111, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Justine Ammendolia
- School
for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Marcus Eriksen
- The 5 Gyres Institute, Los Angeles, California 90409, United States
| | - Ria Utz
- Sciences Po Paris, 27, rue Saint-Guillaume, 75007, Paris, France
- University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Tony R. Walker
- School
for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Kathinka Fürst
- Norwegian Institute
for Water Research, Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
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6
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Lee J, Hong S, Lim S, Lee J, Jung R, Choi S. A lesser known but emerging issue, recreational fishing debris and the anglers' opinions in South Korea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115229. [PMID: 37453287 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115229] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The abundance and characteristics of marine debris originating from recreational fishing were examined across 55 sites in four different regions in Korea. The result shows that the average abundance of debris was 4.3 ± 4.2 (n/m2) in terms of the number and 13.4 ± 18.1 (g/m2) in terms of the weight, and the most often found item was fishing lines (<1 m). Detrimental fishing debris such as fishing lines, hooks and weights comprised 50.9 % of the total debris, suggesting significant impacts on wildlife. A questionnaire survey was conducted with 374 anglers across all four regions to understand their behaviors, perceptions, and preferences regarding government policies. Most of the respondents were aware of the adverse impacts of recreational fishing debris on the environment, and >50 % agreed with the introduction of recreational fishing licenses. This study highlights the urgent need to raise awareness and address the undervalued problem of recreational fishing debris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongsu Lee
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; Department of Marine System Engineering, Gyeongsang National University, Tongyeonghaean-ro 2, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam 53064, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sunwook Hong
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Sehan Lim
- Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Science, Republic of Korea Naval Academy, Jungwon-ro 1, Changwon-si, Gyeongnam 51704, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongmyoung Lee
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Raehyuk Jung
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghyun Choi
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
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7
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Severin MI, Akpetou LK, Annasawmy P, Asuquo FE, Beckman F, Benomar M, Jaya-Ram A, Malouli M, Mees J, Monteiro I, Ndwiga J, Neves Silva P, Nubi OA, Sim YK, Sohou Z, Shau-Hwai AT, Woo SP, Zizah S, Buysse A, Raes F, Krug LA, Seeyave S, Everaert G, Mahu E, Catarino AI. Impact of the citizen science project COLLECT on ocean literacy and well-being within a north/west African and south-east Asian context. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1130596. [PMID: 37388649 PMCID: PMC10303996 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1130596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is both a societal and environmental problem and citizen science has shown to be a useful tool to engage both the public and professionals in addressing it. However, knowledge on the educational and behavioral impacts of citizen science projects focusing on marine litter remains limited. Our preregistered study investigates the impact of the citizen science project Citizen Observation of Local Litter in coastal ECosysTems (COLLECT) on the participants' ocean literacy, pro-environmental intentions and attitudes, well-being, and nature connectedness, using a pretest-posttest design. A total of 410 secondary school students from seven countries, in Africa (Benin, Cabo Verde, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria) and Asia (Malaysia) were trained to sample plastics on sandy beaches and to analyze their collection in the classroom. Non-parametric statistical tests (n = 239 matched participants) demonstrate that the COLLECT project positively impacted ocean literacy (i.e., awareness and knowledge of marine litter, self-reported litter-reducing behaviors, attitudes towards beach litter removal). The COLLECT project also led to higher pro-environmental behavioral intentions for students in Benin and Ghana (implying a positive spillover effect) and higher well-being and nature connectedness for students in Benin. Results are interpreted in consideration of a high baseline in awareness and attitudes towards marine litter, a low internal consistency of pro-environmental attitudes, the cultural context of the participating countries, and the unique settings of the project's implementation. Our study highlights the benefits and challenges of understanding how citizen science impacts the perceptions and behaviors towards marine litter in youth from the respective regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine I. Severin
- Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), Oostende, Belgium
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Centre for the Psychology of Learning and Experimental Psychopathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lazare Kouame Akpetou
- Centre Universitaire de Recherche et d’Application en Télédétection (CURAT), Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | | | - Francis Emile Asuquo
- Marine Atmosphere and Coastal Ocean Research Network (MACORN), UNICAL, Faculty of Oceanography, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Fiona Beckman
- Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO), Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Mostapha Benomar
- Institut National de Recherche Halieutique (INRH), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Annette Jaya-Ram
- Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Mohammed Malouli
- Institut National de Recherche Halieutique (INRH), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Jan Mees
- Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), Oostende, Belgium
- Marine Biology Research Group, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ivanice Monteiro
- Ocean Science Centre Mindelo, Instituto do Mar (IMar), Mindelo, Cape Verde
| | - Joey Ndwiga
- Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), Oostende, Belgium
| | | | | | - Yee Kwang Sim
- Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Zacharie Sohou
- Institut de Recherches Halieutiques et Océanologiques du Benin (IRHOB), Cotonou, Benin
| | - Aileen Tan Shau-Hwai
- Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Sau Pinn Woo
- Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Soukaina Zizah
- Institut National de Recherche Halieutique (INRH), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Ann Buysse
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Filip Raes
- Centre for the Psychology of Learning and Experimental Psychopathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lilian A. Krug
- Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO), Plymouth, United Kingdom
- Centre for Marine and Environmental Research (CIMA), University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Sophie Seeyave
- Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO), Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | | | - Edem Mahu
- Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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8
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Hung LY, Wang SM, Yeh TK. Kolb's experiential learning theory and marine debris education: Effects of different stages on learning. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 191:114933. [PMID: 37119586 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Marine debris is a vital issue in ocean governance. While education outreach can promote individual learning and develop pro-environmental behavior, research on marine debris education remains scarce. Kolb's experiential learning theory may provide a holistic model for marine debris education; therefore, this study developed an experiential-learning based marine debris (ELBMD) beach cleanup curriculum and analyzed the participants' performance during Kolb's four-stage cycle. The results revealed that (1) the ELBMD curriculum deepened the participants' understanding of marine debris, created a sense of responsibility, and increased their confidence in analytical skills and intention to act responsibly. (2) Reflection (Stage II) encouraged participants to think deeply about the human-environment relationship, which induced pro-environmental behavior and awareness of political engagement (Stage IV). (3) Peer discussion (Stage III) induced participants to refine their conception architecture, form values, and practice pro-environmental behavior (Stage IV). The results may aid the development of future marine debris education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ya Hung
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116325, Taiwan, ROC; Taiwan Marine Education Center, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202301, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shun-Mei Wang
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116325, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ting-Kuang Yeh
- Institute of Marine Environmental Science and Technology, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116325, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Earth Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116325, Taiwan, ROC.
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9
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Bettencourt S, Freitas DN, Lucas C, Costa S, Caeiro S. Marine litter education: From awareness to action. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 192:114963. [PMID: 37201345 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a global problem. Education has been acclaimed as a potential tool to tackle this issue, yet, integrative, student-centered, and over weeks studies to raise awareness on the theme that compares pre- with post-intervention results are limited in the literature. Furthermore, almost no studies rely on the basis of previous experience on the theme and local reality. This paper presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of an educational intervention to raise awareness and educate students (1st cycle to high-school) about marine litter. Different learning skills were fostered through theoretical, laboratorial, and hands-on activities and students participated in a beach clean-up to summarize the classroom's learnings in loco. Pre- and post-questionnaire results indicate that students' knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intentions changed. Identification of marine litter estimated degradation times and observation of microplastics in local sand samples were activities highly appreciated by youngsters. This intervention positively impacted schoolchildren's literacy, contributing to advancing education in marine litter and can be further adapted to other educational areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bettencourt
- Center for Global Studies, Department of Science and Technology, Portuguese Distance Learning University, Lisbon, Portugal; CENSE Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research, CHANGE-Global Change and Sustainability Institute, School of Science and Technology, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Lisbon, Portugal; MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, ARDITI Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal; OOM-Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, ARDITI-Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal.
| | - Diogo Nuno Freitas
- ITI/LARSyS/M-ITI-Madeira Interactive Technologies Institute, Madeira, Portugal; NOVA LINCS NOVA Laboratory for Computer Science and Informatics, Lisbon, Portugal; Faculty of Exact Sciences and Engineering, University of Madeira, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Carlos Lucas
- OOM-Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, ARDITI-Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Sónia Costa
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, ARDITI Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal; OOM-Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, ARDITI-Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Sandra Caeiro
- Center for Global Studies, Department of Science and Technology, Portuguese Distance Learning University, Lisbon, Portugal; CENSE Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research, CHANGE-Global Change and Sustainability Institute, School of Science and Technology, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Lisbon, Portugal
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10
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Serra-Gonçalves C, Lavers JL, Tait HL, Fischer AM, Bond AL. Assessing the effectiveness of MARPOL Annex V at reducing marine debris on Australian beaches. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 191:114929. [PMID: 37075560 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
To mitigate marine debris and promote sustainable marine industries, legislation and regulations surrounding the management of marine debris have been adopted worldwide. One of the most well-known and important agreements is the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), which focuses on reducing all types of ship-sourced marine pollution. MARPOL Annex V, which deals with the disposal of solid waste, came into force on 31 December 1988. However, was only amended to include a complete ban on waste disposal as of 1 January 2013. Assessing the effectiveness of key regulations is fundamental for supporting evidence-based decisions regarding the management of our oceans. Here, we evaluated whether MARPOL Annex V translated into a decrease in the incidence of shipping- and commercial fishing-sourced debris on remote beaches in Australia using 14 years of standardised, community-driven data. From 2006 to 2020 there was a significant change over time in the density of fishing and shipping debris on Australian beaches; debris density increased up to 2013 followed by a decrease until mid-2017. Although the new regulation started in January 2013, the decrease in density was not recorded until one year later. The decline was only observed for 4 years, reinforcing the existence of lags between the implementation of international agreements and the corresponding potential reduction in debris in the environment. This provides compelling evidence that international agreements and policies by themselves are not enough to solve the debris problem, with improved implementation and enforcement also required. We discuss future perspectives and solutions to reduce ocean-sourced litter inputs into the ocean and highlight the urgent need for action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Serra-Gonçalves
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia.
| | - Jennifer L Lavers
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia
| | - Heidi L Tait
- Tangaroa Blue Foundation, PO Box 1235, Dunsborough, Western Australia 6281, Australia
| | - Andrew M Fischer
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, School Road, Newnham, Tasmania 7250, Australia
| | - Alexander L Bond
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia; Bird Group, The Natural History Museum, Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 6AP, United Kingdom
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11
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Pocock MJO, Hamlin I, Christelow J, Passmore H, Richardson M. The benefits of citizen science and nature‐noticing activities for well‐being, nature connectedness and pro‐nature conservation behaviours. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
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12
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Pinardo-Barco S, Sanromualdo-Collado A, García-Romero L. Can the long-term effects of beach cleaning heavy duty machinery on aeolian sedimentary dynamics be detected by monitoring of vehicle tracks? An applied and methodological approach. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 325:116645. [PMID: 36334447 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116645] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Beach-dune systems are fragile ecosystems vulnerable to changes, especially those associated to human activities. This study focuses on El Inglés beach (Canary Islands, Spain), which is located on the eastern limit of the Maspalomas dunefield. This is the sediment input to the dunefield, and vehicles that provide urban-touristic services circulate every day, most notably heavy duty machinery responsible for beach cleaning. The aim of this study is to make a first methodological approach and a quantitative and empirical analysis of the long-term environmental effects, especially on the topography and geomorphology, that mechanical beach cleaning services could have on the aeolian dynamics, using as an indicator the vehicles tracks mapping. The methodology is divided into four sections: i) a spatiotemporal study of vehicle tracks on the beach; ii) a field campaign to observe beach cleaning activities in situ and compile data; iii) an interview with the local team responsible for beach cleaning; and iv) a general analysis of the aeolian dynamics over the almost last two decades. Results shown not only a high correlation between vehicle tracks and heavy duty machinery tracks, but also the variation in vehicle track density was proven to follow changes in the management process and the number of tourists. Different track densities varied depending on the intensity of the presence of visitors and hence the intensity of beach use, which is not homogeneous throughout the beach. A study of the deflation surfaces as erosion process found that they not only remain steady but even increase in some areas with high vehicle track densities, with no sedimentary gain. Although management activities like cleaning and levelling may not have a direct impact on the dunefield, they were positively correlated to deflation surfaces, increasing sediment loss in the beach area. These activities could be leading an artificially-maintained steady beach contrary to documented sedimentary loss in the dunefield. In conclusion, the pioneer approach of analysing the vehicle traffic through tracks monitoring, especially beach cleaning activities, has shown the viability to detect long-term effects on the sedimentary dynamics, including sediment loss to the foredune and, therefore, inside the system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pinardo-Barco
- Grupo de Geografía Física y Medio Ambiente, Instituto de Oceanografía y Cambio Global, IOCAG, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, ULPGC. Spain.
| | - Abel Sanromualdo-Collado
- Grupo de Geografía Física y Medio Ambiente, Instituto de Oceanografía y Cambio Global, IOCAG, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, ULPGC. Spain.
| | - Leví García-Romero
- Grupo de Geografía Física y Medio Ambiente, Instituto de Oceanografía y Cambio Global, IOCAG, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, ULPGC. Spain; Geoturvol Research Group, Departamento de Geografía e Historia, Facultad de Humanidades, Universidad de La Laguna. Spain.
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13
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Praet E, Baeza-Álvarez J, De Veer D, Holtmann-Ahumada G, Jones JS, Langford S, Dearte JM, Schofield J, Thiel M, Wyles KJ. Bottle with a message: The role of story writing as an engagement tool to explore children's perceptions of marine plastic litter. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 186:114457. [PMID: 36525759 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114457] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
As human behaviors play a crucial role in addressing the global threat of plastic pollution, it is vital to understand perceptions about marine plastic litter (MPL) and to develop interventions encouraging pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs). This study evaluates story writing as a window to explore perceptions and as an engagement activity to boost PEBs. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, schoolchildren from the East Pacific coast participated in this activity, each creating a story and answering a pre-post survey. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of 81 stories and 79 surveys show awareness of sources and impacts. Participants identified land and local pollution as significant contributors to MPL and emphasized bio-ecological impacts, reflecting concern for landscape and wildlife. While the stories presented a diversity of solutions, recycling dominated the surveys. As participants reported an increase in self-assessed knowledge and improved PEBs after this activity, it can be seen as an engagement tool to encourage behavior change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Praet
- Department of Archaeology, University of York, York, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Jostein Baeza-Álvarez
- Facultad Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile
| | - Diamela De Veer
- Facultad Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile
| | | | - Jen S Jones
- Galapagos Conservation Trust, London, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Sarah Langford
- Galapagos Conservation Trust, London, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | | | - John Schofield
- Department of Archaeology, University of York, York, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Martin Thiel
- Facultad Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Millennium Nucleus Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Island (ESMOI), Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Coquimbo, Chile
| | - Kayleigh J Wyles
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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14
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The ecological impact of plastic pollution in a changing climate. Emerg Top Life Sci 2022; 6:389-402. [PMID: 36398707 DOI: 10.1042/etls20220016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Assessing three interlinked issues, plastic pollution, climate change and biodiversity loss separately can overlook potential interactions that may lead to positive or negative impacts on global ecosystem processes. Recent studies suggest that threatened species and ecosystems are vulnerable to both plastic pollution and climate change stressors. Here we consider the connectivity and state of knowledge between these three environmental issues with a focus on the Global South. Nine out of top ten Long-Term Climate Risk Index (CRI) (2000-2019) ranked countries are located within the Global South, yet research is focused in the Global North. A literature search for the top ten Long-Term Climate Risk Index (CRI) (2000-2019) ranked countries matched a total of 2416 (3.3% of global publications) search results on climate change, with 56 (4% of the global publications) on plastic pollution, and seven (7.7% of the global publications) on both climate change and plastic pollution. There is a strong correlation between the Global South and high biodiversity hotspots, high food insecurity and low environmental performance. Using Bangladesh as a case study, we show the erosion rates and sea level rise scenarios that will increase ocean-bound plastic pollution and impact high biodiversity areas. Poverty alleviation and promoting renewable energy and green practices can significantly reduce the stress on the environment. We recommend that these connected planetary threats can be best addressed through a holistic and collaborative approach to research, a focus on the Global South, and an ambitious policy agenda.
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15
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Parker-Jurd FNF, Smith NS, Gibson L, Nuojua S, Thompson RC. Evaluating the performance of the 'Seabin' - A fixed point mechanical litter removal device for sheltered waters. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 184:114199. [PMID: 36209536 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical interventions are increasingly suggested as a means of removing plastic litter from aquatic environments; their performance is rarely evaluated, but such information is critical to inform policy interventions such as those required to facilitate UNEA 5.2. The Seabin, a fixed-point device designed to remove floating litter in sheltered waters was examined in an urban tidal marina (Southwest UK). It captured on average 58 litter items/day; chiefly plastic pellets, polystyrene balls and plastic fragments. It also captured one marine organism for every 3.6 items of litter, or 13 organisms/day, half of which were dead upon retrieval. The rate of litter capture was inferior to manual cleaning conducted with nets from pontoons or vessels. Hence, in this location the Seabin was of minimal benefit in terms of marine litter removal and resulted in mortality of marine organisms. The presence of such devices could also precipitate false optimism and reliance on technological solutions, rather than systemic changes in our production, use, and disposal of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence N F Parker-Jurd
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Natalie S Smith
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Liam Gibson
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK; Strategic Planning and Infrastructure, Plymouth City Council, Ballard House, West Hoe Road, Plymouth PL1 3BJ, UK
| | - Sohvi Nuojua
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK; Faculty of Education, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Richard C Thompson
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drakes Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
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16
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Bouzekry A, Mghili B, Aksissou M. Addressing the challenge of marine plastic litter in the Moroccan Mediterranean: A citizen science project with schoolchildren. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 184:114167. [PMID: 36182785 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
In this study, based on data collected by citizen science, we studied the abundance, spatial and temporal distribution of marine litter in three beaches of the Moroccan Mediterranean. A total of 14,042 litter items were collected with an average abundance of 0.58 items/m2. The most of litter were composed of anthropic polymeric materials, representing 74 % of the total litter collected. Plastics account for the majority of the items collected and are mainly caps/lids, crisp/sweet packets, plastic/polystyrene, cigarette butts and small plastic bags. Litter abundance displayed significant seasonal differences, with the highest during summer. Tourism and poor waste management practices are the major sources of plastic on the beaches surveyed. The use of the Clean Coast Index (CCI) and the Plastics Abundance Index (PAI) permits the classification of the three beaches in the Moroccan Mediterranean as a "moderately clean" coastal area with a "very high abundance" of plastics. In addition, the Hazardous Items Index (HII) allows classification of the region as highly polluted by hazardous litter. Best management measures are needed to promote the environmental quality of the beaches of the Moroccan Mediterranean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assia Bouzekry
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Faculty of Sciences, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Bilal Mghili
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Faculty of Sciences, Tetouan, Morocco.
| | - Mustapha Aksissou
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Faculty of Sciences, Tetouan, Morocco
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17
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Kolenda K, Kuśmierek N, Kujawa K, Smolis A, Wiśniewski K, Salata S, Maltz TK, Stachowiak M, Kadej M. Bottled & canned - Anthropogenic debris as an understudied ecological trap for small animals. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155616. [PMID: 35504387 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155616] [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: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, littering is one of the biggest challenges that environmental conservation is facing. Although beverage containers, such as bottles and cans, belong to the most common threats in this context, their effect on animals has been poorly studied. The aim of this study was to assess the diversity and mortality level of the animal taxa entering discarded containers and to investigate which container features influence the number and functional composition of the trapped animals. The study was conducted in 10 urban woodlands in the city of Wrocław, Poland. In total, 939 open containers were collected. In 56% of them, a total number of 10,162 dead individuals (10,139 invertebrates and 23 vertebrates) was found. The most common amongst them were insects (orders: Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera), malacostracans (Isopoda), arachnids (Opiliones, Sarcoptiformes) and gastropods (Stylommatophora). The number of dead animals was affected positively by the container capacity and was significantly higher in glass and plastic bottles when compared to aluminium cans. At the same time, the presence of a neck negatively affected the number of dead animals. Container capacity was also positively correlated with the abundance of the most common functional groups: predators, phytophages and saprophages. Moreover, colourless and green, but not brown, containers were a significant predictor for the abundance of the latter two groups. Our study revealed that discarded containers constitute an ecological trap for many groups of animals. There is an urgent need to reduce the amount of rubbish in the environment by, for example, the implementation of regional and international regulations addressing the problem of littering, or organising repeated clean-up and educational activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Kolenda
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Conservation of Vertebrates, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Sienkiewicza 21, PL-50-335 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Natalia Kuśmierek
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63, PL-51-148 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Kujawa
- Statistical Analysis Centre, Wrocław Medical University, Marcinkowskiego 2-6, PL-50-368 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Adrian Smolis
- Department of Invertebrate Biology, Evolution and Conservation, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 65, PL-51-148 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Konrad Wiśniewski
- Department of Zoology and Animal Physiology, Institute of Biology and Earth Sciences, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Arciszewskiego 22a, PL-76-200 Słupsk, Poland
| | - Sebastian Salata
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Taxonomy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 65, PL-51-148 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Tomasz K Maltz
- Museum of Natural History, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Sienkiewicza 21, PL-50-335 Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Marcin Kadej
- Department of Invertebrate Biology, Evolution and Conservation, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 65, PL-51-148 Wrocław, Poland
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18
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Kawabe LA, Ghilardi-Lopes NP, Turra A, Wyles KJ. Citizen science in marine litter research: A review. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 182:114011. [PMID: 35964433 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Citizen science (CS) can help to tackle the emerging and worldwide problem of marine litter (ML), from collecting data to engaging different stakeholders. We reviewed what and how the scientific literature is reporting CS on ML to identify possible gaps to be improved. The 92 search results (separate occasions when 48 different CS initiatives were discussed across 85 publication records) revealed an under-representation of studies in developing regions. Most search results focused on the science of ML, whilst information regarding citizen scientists was commonly vague or missing, preventing critical analysis of good practices on this aspect. The studies concentrated on the shoreline and did not harmonize types and sizes of items collected, thus precluding data meta-analyses. The standardisation of CS methods and approaches and the detailed report of aspects related to citizen scientists are essential to support the science we need for the advances in CS efforts to face ML.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Kawabe
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC (UFABC) - Rua Arcturus, 03, Bloco Delta, Jardim Antares, São Bernardo do Campo, SP 09606-070, Brazil
| | - N P Ghilardi-Lopes
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC (UFABC) - Rua Arcturus, 03, Bloco Delta, Jardim Antares, São Bernardo do Campo, SP 09606-070, Brazil.
| | - A Turra
- Department of Biological Oceanography, Oceanographic Institute, University of São Paulo (USP) - Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-120, Brazil
| | - K J Wyles
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK
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19
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Large Wood Debris Contributes to Beach Ecosystems but Colombian Beachgoer’s Do Not Recognize It. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14138140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Large Woody Debris (LWD) accumulation serves essential ecological functions and benefits society’s coastal ecosystems (e.g., beaches). Thus far, the ecosystem services perspective has paid little attention to LWD. Therefore, we aim to contrast social perceptions on LWD and its ecological significance in Puerto Velero beach, Caribbean, Colombia. In consequence, the contribution of LWD to the conformation and creation of Puerto Velero beach was analyzed, as well as how beachgoers perceive the importance of LWD and if they were willing to pay to remove LWD in this beach. To achieve this, a quantitative convergent approach was then proposed using GIS analysis and remote sensing to understand the contributions of LWD to the Puerto Velero beach ecosystem; and in addition, a survey was performed to determine how beachgoers perceived LWD and how they valued the phenomenon. Results indicate that LWD contributed to beach maintenance; nevertheless, most people neglected LWD values because of its lack of visual attractiveness. As such, ecosystem services targets become conflicted because people positively perceived ecosystem services provided by beaches, but they did not assign importance to the beach dynamics they deemed unattractive, regardless of their vast importance.
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20
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Sibaja-Cordero JA, Gómez-Ramírez EH. Marine litter on sandy beaches with different human uses and waste management along the Gulf of Nicoya, Costa Rica. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 175:113392. [PMID: 35134738 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study was a baseline with quantitative data of marine litter along the Gulf of Nicoya, Costa Rica. The objective of the study was to quantify marine litter and its association with human activities in this estuarine gulf. A total of fourteen sandy beaches were cataloged by the degree of urbanization, tourism intensity, beach cleaning programs, and tributary rivers as possible drivers of marine litter presence. The items of the marine litter were separated and weighted by type. Analysis by the clean coastal index (CCI) and multivariate statistics were applied to find spatial patterns in marine litter in the gulf. On beaches with the highest touristic activity, cigarette butts and straws were the main components. Locations with river plume influence, less frequent cleanup, or waste cans showed more bottles, plastic parts, and sanitary waste than beaches in other conditions. A beach in a fisherman town had recently utilized plastic bags, household goods, and boat parts in the marine litter. A wildlife refuge beach showed only small plastic and coffee foam cup fragments that came with currents from other points in the estuary. River basin management, solid waste disposal programs, and environmental education to avoid single-use items combined with correct waste disposal are needed to reduce marine litter in tropical countries focused on ecological tourism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Sibaja-Cordero
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias del Mar y Limnología (CIMAR), Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica; Escuela de Biología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.
| | - Eddy H Gómez-Ramírez
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias del Mar y Limnología (CIMAR), Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica; Escuela de Química, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
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21
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Ford HV, Jones NH, Davies AJ, Godley BJ, Jambeck JR, Napper IE, Suckling CC, Williams GJ, Woodall LC, Koldewey HJ. The fundamental links between climate change and marine plastic pollution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:150392. [PMID: 34583073 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution and climate change have commonly been treated as two separate issues and sometimes are even seen as competing. Here we present an alternative view that these two issues are fundamentally linked. Primarily, we explore how plastic contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the beginning to the end of its life cycle. Secondly, we show that more extreme weather and floods associated with climate change, will exacerbate the spread of plastic in the natural environment. Finally, both issues occur throughout the marine environment, and we show that ecosystems and species can be particularly vulnerable to both, such as coral reefs that face disease spread through plastic pollution and climate-driven increased global bleaching events. A Web of Science search showed climate change and plastic pollution studies in the ocean are often siloed, with only 0.4% of the articles examining both stressors simultaneously. We also identified a lack of regional and industry-specific life cycle analysis data for comparisons in relative GHG contributions by materials and products. Overall, we suggest that rather than debate over the relative importance of climate change or marine plastic pollution, a more productive course would be to determine the linking factors between the two and identify solutions to combat both crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen V Ford
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Anglesey LL59 5AB, UK.
| | - Nia H Jones
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Anglesey LL59 5AB, UK
| | - Andrew J Davies
- Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island, 120 Flagg Road University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Brendan J Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Jenna R Jambeck
- College of Engineering, University of Georgia, GA 30602, Athens, USA
| | - Imogen E Napper
- International Marine Litter Research Unit, School of Biological and Marine Sciences University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Coleen C Suckling
- Fisheries, Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | | | - Lucy C Woodall
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3SZ, UK; Nekton, Science Park, Begbroke, Oxford, OX5 1PF, UK
| | - Heather J Koldewey
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK; Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, UK
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22
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Oturai NG, Pahl S, Syberg K. How can we test plastic pollution perceptions and behavior? A feasibility study with Danish children participating in "the Mass Experiment". THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:150914. [PMID: 34653473 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that behavior change programs can be fast and cost-effective solutions to plastic pollution alongside traditional environmental policy-making. Furthermore, encouraging change in perception and behavior can be a tool to change consumption and waste handling towards increased circularity, which is of high concern in the EU. Beyond knowledge, predictors of pro-environmental behavior include concern, social norms, nature-connectedness, identity and self-efficacy. Citizen Science (CS) as a way to raise awareness and potentially change behavior show promise within plastic litter monitoring. We tested the feasibility of evaluating a nation-wide citizen science intervention, 'the Mass Experiment' (ME), with school students (age 7-16) in Denmark. With more than 57,000 students signed up for ME, this is to our knowledge one of the largest CS activity on plastic debris targeting young people. As an addition to the core CS activity we developed a voluntary and anonymous questionnaire to study the perceptions and behaviors of the students. We hypothesized that the intervention would increase risk perception, self-efficacy and empowerment as well as self-reported actions. Through 931 pre-surveys and 838 post-surveys aggregated at the team level (n = 48), we found that the intervention had no significant overall effect on team, risk-perception, pro-environmental behaviors, nor self-efficacy or empowerment. However, unexpected patterns emerged for age effects, potentially advising some caution over the design of such CS activities particularly for younger children. We discuss methodological limitations, the high baseline for nearly all variables, the Danish context and the intervention itself and make recommendations for studying future CS interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikoline G Oturai
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Denmark.
| | - Sabine Pahl
- Urban and Environmental Psychology Group, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kristian Syberg
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Denmark
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23
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Nash KL, van Putten I, Alexander KA, Bettiol S, Cvitanovic C, Farmery AK, Flies EJ, Ison S, Kelly R, Mackay M, Murray L, Norris K, Robinson LM, Scott J, Ward D, Vince J. Oceans and society: feedbacks between ocean and human health. REVIEWS IN FISH BIOLOGY AND FISHERIES 2022. [PMID: 34366579 DOI: 10.22541/au.160166568.89566317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The concentration of human population along coastlines has far-reaching effects on ocean and societal health. The oceans provide benefits to humans such as food, coastal protection and improved mental well-being, but can also impact negatively via natural disasters. At the same time, humans influence ocean health, for example, via coastal development or through environmental stewardship. Given the strong feedbacks between ocean and human health there is a need to promote desirable interactions, while minimising undesirable interactions. To this end, we articulate two scenarios for 2030. First, Business-as-Usual, named 'Command and (out of) Control', focuses on the anticipated future based on our current trajectory. Second, a more sustainable scenario called 'Living and Connecting', emphasises the development of interactions between oceans and society consistent with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We describe a potential pathway to achieving the 'Living and Connecting' scenario, centred on improving marine citizenship, achieving a more equitable distribution of power among stakeholders, and more equitable access to resources and opportunities. The constituent actions of this pathway can be categorised into four groups: (i) improved approaches to science and health communication that account for society's diverse values, beliefs and worldviews, (ii) a shift towards more trusted relationships among stakeholders to enable two-way knowledge exchange, (iii) economic incentives that encourage behavioural changes necessary for achieving desired sustainability outcomes, and (iv) stronger regulations that simultaneously focus on ocean and human health. We contend that these changes will provide improved outcomes for both oceans and society over the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11160-021-09669-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty L Nash
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Ingrid van Putten
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- CSIRO, Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Karen A Alexander
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Silvana Bettiol
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Christopher Cvitanovic
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Anna K Farmery
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Sierra Ison
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Rachel Kelly
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Mary Mackay
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- CSIRO, Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Linda Murray
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Massey University, Wellington, 6140 New Zealand
| | - Kimberley Norris
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Lucy M Robinson
- Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- Oceans Graduate School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Crawley, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Jennifer Scott
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Delphi Ward
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Joanna Vince
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1340, Launceston, TAS 7250 Australia
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24
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Nash KL, van Putten I, Alexander KA, Bettiol S, Cvitanovic C, Farmery AK, Flies EJ, Ison S, Kelly R, Mackay M, Murray L, Norris K, Robinson LM, Scott J, Ward D, Vince J. Oceans and society: feedbacks between ocean and human health. REVIEWS IN FISH BIOLOGY AND FISHERIES 2022; 32:161-187. [PMID: 34366579 PMCID: PMC8335471 DOI: 10.1007/s11160-021-09669-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The concentration of human population along coastlines has far-reaching effects on ocean and societal health. The oceans provide benefits to humans such as food, coastal protection and improved mental well-being, but can also impact negatively via natural disasters. At the same time, humans influence ocean health, for example, via coastal development or through environmental stewardship. Given the strong feedbacks between ocean and human health there is a need to promote desirable interactions, while minimising undesirable interactions. To this end, we articulate two scenarios for 2030. First, Business-as-Usual, named 'Command and (out of) Control', focuses on the anticipated future based on our current trajectory. Second, a more sustainable scenario called 'Living and Connecting', emphasises the development of interactions between oceans and society consistent with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We describe a potential pathway to achieving the 'Living and Connecting' scenario, centred on improving marine citizenship, achieving a more equitable distribution of power among stakeholders, and more equitable access to resources and opportunities. The constituent actions of this pathway can be categorised into four groups: (i) improved approaches to science and health communication that account for society's diverse values, beliefs and worldviews, (ii) a shift towards more trusted relationships among stakeholders to enable two-way knowledge exchange, (iii) economic incentives that encourage behavioural changes necessary for achieving desired sustainability outcomes, and (iv) stronger regulations that simultaneously focus on ocean and human health. We contend that these changes will provide improved outcomes for both oceans and society over the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11160-021-09669-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty L. Nash
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Ingrid van Putten
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- CSIRO, Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Karen A. Alexander
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Silvana Bettiol
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Christopher Cvitanovic
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Anna K. Farmery
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Emily J. Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Sierra Ison
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Rachel Kelly
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Mary Mackay
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- CSIRO, Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Linda Murray
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Massey University, Wellington, 6140 New Zealand
| | - Kimberley Norris
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Lucy M. Robinson
- Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- Oceans Graduate School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Crawley, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Jennifer Scott
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Delphi Ward
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Joanna Vince
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1340, Launceston, TAS 7250 Australia
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25
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Coventry PA, Brown J, Pervin J, Brabyn S, Pateman R, Breedvelt J, Gilbody S, Stancliffe R, McEachan R, White P. Nature-based outdoor activities for mental and physical health: Systematic review and meta-analysis. SSM Popul Health 2021; 16:100934. [PMID: 34646931 PMCID: PMC8498096 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental health problems are associated with lower quality of life, increased unscheduled care, high economic and social cost, and increased mortality. Nature-based interventions (NBIs) that support people to engage with nature in a structured way are asset-based solutions to improve mental health for community based adults. However, it is unclear which NBIs are most effective, or what format and dose is most efficacious. We systematically reviewed the controlled and uncontrolled evidence for outdoor NBIs. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42020163103). Studies that included adults (aged ≥18 years) in community-based settings with or without mental and/or physical health problems were eligible for inclusion. Eligible interventions were structured outdoor activities in green and/or blue space for health and wellbeing. We searched ASSIA, CENTRAL, Embase, Greenfile, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science in October 2019; the search was updated in September 2020. We screened 14,321 records and included 50 studies. Sixteen studies were randomised controlled trials (RCTs); 18 were controlled studies; and 16 were uncontrolled before and after studies. Risk of bias for RCTs was low to moderate; and moderate to high for controlled and uncontrolled studies. Random effects meta-analysis of RCTs showed that NBIs were effective for improving depressive mood -0.64 (95% CI: 1.05 to -0.23), reducing anxiety -0.94 (95% CI: 0.94 to -0.01), improving positive affect 0.95 (95% CI: 0.59 to 1.31), and reducing negative affect -0.52 (95% CI: 0.77 to -0.26). Results from controlled and uncontrolled studies largely reflected findings from RCTs. There was less evidence that NBIs improved physical health. The most effective interventions were offered for between 8 and 12 weeks, and the optimal dose ranged from 20 to 90 min. NBIs, specifically gardening, green exercise and nature-based therapy, are effective for improving mental health outcomes in adults, including those with pre-existing mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. Coventry
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- York Environmental Sustainability Institute, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
| | | | - Jodi Pervin
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sally Brabyn
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Rachel Pateman
- Stockholm Environment Institute, Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
| | | | - Simon Gilbody
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | | | | | - PiranC.L. White
- York Environmental Sustainability Institute, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam T. Ford
- Department of Biology The University of British Columbia 1177 Research Road Kelowna British Columbia Canada
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27
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Löfström E, Richter I, Nesvold IH. Disruptive Communication as a Means to Engage Children in Solving Environmental Challenges: A Case Study on Plastic Pollution. Front Psychol 2021; 12:635448. [PMID: 34707527 PMCID: PMC8544425 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.635448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental degradation and how we care for our planet are some of the greatest challenges the world is up against at this moment. These challenges has received increased focus in both, research and the public sphere. So far, most of this attention revolved around adult’s attitudes and behavior. However, environmental engagement amongst the younger generation gains in popularity. Using plastic pollution as a case, this qualitative study aims to acquire insights into the mental models of children. We collected qualitative data during an innovative, structured workshop according to the “Nature In Your Face” (NIYF) framework. The approach challenges the assumption that the societal change can be achieved gradually, with non-invasive techniques. Instead, we explore the potential of disruption to push citizens out of their comfort zone, thereby making room for co-creation. The disruption was performed by confronting 36 fifth graders from a Norwegian primary school, with disturbing images of plastic contaminating their local shorelines. The data was obtained by using the workshop framework, combined with semi-structured group interviews. The interview data was analyzed by means of thematic analysis. We found that the disruptions triggered emotional reactions like anger and fear. With these emotions as a driving force, the first workshop step was introduced, the Framing of the problem. The next step, Twisting the problem, was reflected in the children developing their own, creative solutions and creatively engaged with them in groups. The last step, Using, was only touched upon in the workshop and is therefore beyond the scope of this paper. Our results indicate that there are three prominent themes reflecting how children discuss plastic pollution. The children talked about their (1) Emotions related to plastic pollution, (2) Attitudes related to plastic, and (3) Perceptions of plastic pollution. These themes were further subdivided into different types of emotions, characteristics of plastic as a material as well as perceptions on different locations of unnecessary plastic. Psychologically, the mechanisms underlying the identified themes were linked to eco-anxiety, denial, self-efficacy, and cognitive dissonance. We conclude that disruptive eco-visualization can create an emotional response amongst children, which can be transformed into co-creation of ideas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Löfström
- Citizens, Environment and Safety (CES), Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences, Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Isabel Richter
- Citizens, Environment and Safety (CES), Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences, Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.,Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Ine H Nesvold
- Citizens, Environment and Safety (CES), Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences, Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
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28
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Adam I. Tourists' perception of beach litter and willingness to participate in beach clean-up. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 170:112591. [PMID: 34171629 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
While tourists contribute to and suffer the consequences of beach litter, studies on beach clean-up exercises have mostly neglected them and overly focused on resident beach goers. Based on a sample of 685 international tourists in Ghana, this paper examines the perception of international tourists on beach litter and the determinants of their willingness to participate in beach clean-up as an experiential activity during their visits to Ghanaian beaches. The findings reveal that international tourists have negative perceptions of beach litter, constructed along four domains, namely health, recreational activity participation, aesthetic, and coastal environment. Further, sex, age, educational attainment, continent of origin, travel party status, environmental value, and perception of beach litter significantly influence the willingness of the tourists to participate in beach clean-ups. The implications of these findings in the context of beach litter management at coastal resorts and destinations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Issahaku Adam
- Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, University of Cape Coast, Ghana; School of Tourism and Hospitality, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
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29
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Online media reveals a global problem of discarded containers as deadly traps for animals. Sci Rep 2021; 11:267. [PMID: 33431925 PMCID: PMC7801720 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79549-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The widespread occurrence of litter is a severe threat to global ecosystems. We have analyzed online media, to assess the diversity of animals that are prone to getting trapped in discarded containers and check which kind of containers is the most common trap for animals. A total of 503 records from around the world (51 countries, 6 continents) have been found. These include invertebrates (17 taxa, ca.1050 dead individuals), and vertebrates (98 taxa, 496 individuals including 44 carcasses). The latter group was most frequently represented by mammals (78.5% of all cases), then reptiles (15.3%), birds (1.2%), fish (1.0%) and amphibians (0.4%). Nearly 12.5% of the determined vertebrates are classified as vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered, according to the IUCN. Although most trapped individuals were smaller animals, bigger ones such as monitor lizards (Varanus spp.) or large carnivores were also recorded. In most cases, animals were trapped in glass or plastic jars (32.4%), drink cans (16.5%), and steel cans (16.3%). Our results demonstrate that discarded containers can be a threat to all major groups of animals. In order to address this phenomenon, it is necessary to decrease a global production of debris, implement container deposit legislation and organize repeatable cleanup actions.
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Is Knowledge of Circular Economy, Pro-Environmental Behavior, Satisfaction with Life, and Beliefs a Predictor of Connectedness to Nature in Rural Children and Adolescents? A Pilot Study. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12239951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable development (SD) is crucial to maintaining and preserving the planet we live on. The new paradigm of circular economy (CE) corresponds to the sustainable development goals and includes environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The United Nations has set quality education and the search for good health and well-being in the long term as tools for achieving SD. This study aims to identify the predictors of connectedness to nature in children and adolescents using knowledge of CE, pro-environmental behavior, beliefs about caring for the environment, and satisfaction with life as possible predictive variables. The exploration of the influence of these predictors on connectedness to nature, taking sex and age as covariates, was performed using a binary logistic regression model. We found that low scores on pro-environmental behavior, satisfaction with life, knowledge of waste management and CE, and beliefs about environmental behavior were related to a low degree of connectedness to nature. Thus, our findings suggest that the educational system must promote not only the assimilation of knowledge and beliefs but also satisfaction with life given its relationship with connectedness to nature.
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31
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Lewin WC, Weltersbach MS, Denfeld G, Strehlow HV. Recreational anglers' perceptions, attitudes and estimated contribution to angling related marine litter in the German Baltic Sea. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2020; 272:111062. [PMID: 32854878 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter affects marine environments and ecosystem services worldwide. A substantial amount of the traceable marine litter originates from tourism and recreational activities. An important activity carried out in coastal areas is marine recreational fishing (MRF). Although the impacts of MRF on marine ecosystems has received increasing attention during recent years, the contribution of MRF to marine litter is widely unknown. Marine litter is caused by human activities and its avoidance requires an understanding of environmental behaviour. This study presents results obtained by a telephone survey aimed to assess the behaviour, motivations and attitudes of Baltic Sea anglers towards marine litter. The telephone survey identified three angler types primarily separated by the predominant motives regarding nature experience, catch orientation and challenge seeking. Regardless of their motivation, most anglers were concerned about marine litter, recognised their responsibility and were willing to contribute to litter avoidance and mitigation. The telephone survey was supplemented by face-to-face angler interviews during a stratified random access point intercept survey along the German Baltic coast to estimate the amount of lost fishing tackle based on anglers self-reports. According to the reports, the loss of fishing tackle was a rare event for individual anglers. Nonetheless, given a high number of Baltic Sea anglers and angling effort, local environmental impacts due to lost fishing tackle on marine environments cannot be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolf-Christian Lewin
- Thünen Institute of Baltic Sea Fisheries, Alter Hafen Süd 2, 18069, Rostock, Germany.
| | | | - Gloria Denfeld
- Thünen Institute of Baltic Sea Fisheries, Alter Hafen Süd 2, 18069, Rostock, Germany
| | - Harry V Strehlow
- Thünen Institute of Baltic Sea Fisheries, Alter Hafen Süd 2, 18069, Rostock, Germany
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32
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Lucrezi S, Digun-Aweto O. "Who wants to join?" Visitors' willingness to participate in beach litter clean-ups in Nigeria. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 155:111167. [PMID: 32314746 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Public involvement in beach litter clean-ups can help tackle marine litter while providing experiential learning, raising awareness and stimulating anti-litter behaviour. Beach visitors contribute to litter generation by inappropriate discarding behaviour, and engaging them in litter removal can be beneficial. This study assessed visitors' (N = 512) stated willingness to participate in litter clean-ups at Elegushi Royal Beach, Nigeria, which is under pressure from litter problems visitors contribute to, and potentially emblematic of organised litter clean-ups. Beach visitors recognised marine litter as a global and national problem but did not perceive the case study beach as being littered. Willingness to participate in beach litter clean-ups was marginal. However, it was positively correlated with previous participation in litter clean-ups, perceived collective responsibility and the importance of policy and investments in reducing litter. These results were used to propose a framework to engage and recruit visitors in beach litter removal campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Lucrezi
- Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Oghenetejiri Digun-Aweto
- Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Haarr ML, Pantalos M, Hartviksen MK, Gressetvold M. Citizen science data indicate a reduction in beach litter in the Lofoten archipelago in the Norwegian Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 153:111000. [PMID: 32275549 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a major global challenge, even in the remote reaches of the Arctic. Monitoring temporal trends in litter loadings and composition is key to designing effective preventative and mitigative measures, and to assess their impact. Few data are available, however, by which to do this in the Arctic region. Citizen science data organised by the local waste management company in the Lofoten archipelago in the Norwegian Sea is an exception to this. We analysed volunteer cleanup data (total weight and counts of select litter types, standardised to density per 100 m) from over 200 locations from 2011 to 2018. Results indicate a general decline in beach litter in the region, and particularly in litter types related to private use, such as beverage bottles. These declines are most likely the combined result of extensive cleanup activities and a considerable reduction in local litter inputs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Pantalos
- SALT Lofoten AS, Havneterminalen, Fiskergata 23, 8301 Svolvær, Norway
| | | | - Marit Gressetvold
- Lofoten Avfallsselskap (Lofoten Waste Management Company), Lekneskroken 3, 8376 Leknes, Norway
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Britton E, Kindermann G, Domegan C, Carlin C. Blue care: a systematic review of blue space interventions for health and wellbeing. Health Promot Int 2020; 35:50-69. [PMID: 30561661 PMCID: PMC7245048 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/day103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the potential use of outdoor water environments, or blue space, in the promotion of human health and wellbeing. However, therapeutic nature-based practices are currently outpacing policy and the evidence base for health or wellbeing benefits of therapeutic interventions within blue space has not been systematically assessed. This systematic review aims to address the gap in understanding the impacts of blue space within existing interventions for targeted individuals. A systematic review was carried out, searching Google Scholar, SCOPUS, PubMed, etc. through to August 2017. Only blue space interventions were included that were specifically designed and structured with a therapeutic purpose for individuals with a defined need and did not include nature-based promotion projects or casual recreation in the outdoors. Thirty-three studies met the inclusion criteria and were assessed. Overall, the studies suggest that blue care can have direct benefit for health, especially mental health and psycho-social wellbeing. The majority of papers found a positive or weak association between blue care and health and wellbeing indicators. There was also some evidence for greater social connectedness during and after interventions, but results were inconsistent and mixed across studies with very few findings for physical health. This is the first systematic review of the literature on blue care. In summary, it has been shown that mental health, especially psycho-social wellbeing, can be improved with investment in blue spaces. Key areas for future research include improving understanding of the mechanisms through which blue care can improve public health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Easkey Britton
- Whitaker Institute, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Gesche Kindermann
- Whitaker Institute, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Applied Ecology Unit, Centre for Environmental Science, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Christine Domegan
- Whitaker Institute, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
- J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Caitriona Carlin
- Whitaker Institute, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Applied Ecology Unit, Centre for Environmental Science, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Abstract
Given the extensive challenge of marine litter faced by coastal ecosystems, this article aims to illuminate an innovative form of environmental caretaking that builds upon a newly established concept of relational environmentalism. Relational environmentalism is a movement of individuals who purposefully interact with each other and with external bodies in a variety of dynamically developing ways to affect the perceptions, motivations and practical actions for the caretaking of endangered natural environments. As a theoretical contribution, the article conceptualizes eight categories of relational environmentalism: inviting, informing, coaching, norm enforcing, politicizing, mobilizing, intergeneralizing, and bridging. By means of a social media content analysis and primary data from the “Marine Environment Patrol” Facebook site, the article provides the first evidence on what relational environmentalism is and how it is institutionalized in the case of leisure- and tourism-based volunteering to collect marine litter. Furthermore, the article shows that successful campaigning and environmental patrolling in coastal recreation and tourism is a matter of building alliances and exchanging logics across a variety of boundaries and that it depends on a gradual intensification and diversification of communicative and mobilizing measures.
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Rosa CD, Collado S. Enhancing Nature Conservation and Health: Changing the Focus to Active Pro-environmental Behaviours. PSYCHOLOGICAL STUDIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12646-019-00516-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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Bains KK, Turnbull T. Improving Health Outcomes and Serving Wider Society: The Potential Role of Understanding and Cultivating Prosocial Purpose Within Health Psychology Research and Practice to Address Climate Change and Social Isolation and Loneliness. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1787. [PMID: 31440182 PMCID: PMC6693434 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Human beings face unprecedented social and environmental challenges which require collective action and changes in health-related behavior. The threat of climate change is becoming an increasingly urgent issue for humanity and the natural environment. Alongside this, there is evidence that loneliness and social isolation can significantly impact cardiovascular health and mortality through direct and indirect processes, for example by increasing risky behaviors. However, one construct that has so far received little attention in health psychology is that of purpose. Purpose is thought to be self-regulatory; it derives from a greater sense of meaning yet is goal-directed and involves a stable and generalized intention toward accomplishment. The development of a sense of purpose is associated with improved mental and physical health. However, it is possible that one facet of purpose, prosocial orientation, may have a particularly beneficial effect on psychological well-being, increasing generativity and personal growth. Prosocial purpose may also help explain the growth in the number of people in the West who are reducing their meat and dairy intake, which may help mitigate climate change. It may also help explain the rise of civic engagement in environmental volunteering and support for conservation amongst some individuals and communities, which can also confer additional health benefits. Cultivating prosocial purpose may aid engagement in behavior change initiatives which may improve individual health and help address these wider social challenges, such as changing one’s diet to help address climate change, volunteering and engaging in physical activity outdoors to support the environment, and supporting active engagement with vulnerable groups at risk of social isolation and loneliness. Cultivating prosocial purpose may also support self-advocacy for social changes which can benefit community health. It may be possible to cultivate prosocial purpose through interventions which involve experiential and abstract learning experiences that increase empathy, stimulate reflection and lead to meaning-making processes. This may then facilitate development of a sense of prosocial purpose because meaning-making is thought to be a precursor to purpose development. Doing so may be important to engage populations in efforts to combat climate change and address social isolation and loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Kaur Bains
- Health Services Research, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Centre for Psychology Ltd., Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Triece Turnbull
- Department of Health, Psychology and Communities, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Wyles KJ, Pahl S, Carroll L, Thompson RC. An evaluation of the Fishing For Litter (FFL) scheme in the UK in terms of attitudes, behavior, barriers and opportunities. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 144:48-60. [PMID: 31180006 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a global, persistent, and increasing threat to the oceans, and numerous initiatives aim to address this challenge. Fishing For Litter (FFL) is a voluntary clean-up scheme, where litter is collected as part of routine fishing operations. We surveyed fishers (n = 97) and stakeholders (n = 22) in the UK to investigate perceptions of FFL, its strengths and weaknesses, and potential co-benefits of the scheme. Fishers reported being aware of and concerned about the negative impacts of litter. Overall, FFL was evaluated very positively (7.85/10). In addition, FFL fishers reported less environmentally harmful waste management behaviors both out at sea and in other contexts than did non-FFL fishers. Fishers and stakeholders listed strengths and weaknesses of the scheme and made suggestions for future changes. As well as directly helping to remove litter, this paper demonstrates that clean-up schemes can make a contribution to addressing the underlying causes of marine pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayleigh J Wyles
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK; School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL48AA, UK.
| | - Sabine Pahl
- School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL48AA, UK.
| | - Lauren Carroll
- School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL48AA, UK
| | - Richard C Thompson
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL48AA, UK
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Rosa CD, Collado S. Experiences in Nature and Environmental Attitudes and Behaviors: Setting the Ground for Future Research. Front Psychol 2019; 10:763. [PMID: 31024400 PMCID: PMC6465548 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There is empirical evidence suggesting a positive link between direct experiences in nature and people's environmental attitudes (EA) and behaviors (EB). This has led researchers to encourage more frequent contact with nature, especially during childhood, as a way of increasing pro-environmentalism (i.e., pro-EA and pro-EB). However, the association between experiences in nature and EA/EB is complex, and specific guidelines for people's everyday contact with nature cannot be provided. This article offers an overview of the research conducted until know about the relation between experiences in nature and pro-environmentalism, and opens up new inquiries for future research. We begin with an introduction to people's current tendency toward an alienation from the natural world and set out the objectives of the article. It is followed by three main sections. The first one reports on what experiences in nature refer to, how and where they occur. The second section describes the different approaches used to investigate and interpret the experiences in nature-EA and EB relation. The last section provides suggestions for future research. We close by making some final remarks about the importance of (re)stablishing a greater interaction with nature for people's pro-EA and EB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D. Rosa
- Department of Development and Environment, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Silvia Collado
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Teruel, Spain
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Rayon-Viña F, Miralles L, Fernandez-Rodríguez S, Dopico E, Garcia-Vazquez E. Marine litter and public involvement in beach cleaning: Disentangling perception and awareness among adults and children, Bay of Biscay, Spain. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 141:112-118. [PMID: 30955715 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Coastal litter abundance and its effects have increased for years. Waste reduction is the most effective countermeasure to fight against this problem. Littering attitudes may have an effect on people's involvement in coastal cleanups. In this study, coastal litter perception, awareness about its impact and likely sources were investigated in local population from south Bay of Biscay, Spain. People of different age groups and commitment levels regarding litter were interviewed and their answers compared with data from the area. Results showed differences in perception between volunteers and non-volunteers, but not between children and adults. Interaction effect of age was found for awareness. Volunteers and children tended to erroneously attribute the main litter origin to beachgoers, more than non-volunteers or adults. Our results suggest that encouraging local population to clean beaches would contribute to improve their perception of the problem and their attitudes toward taking action.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Miralles
- University of Oviedo, Functional Biology Department, 33071 Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Eduardo Dopico
- University of Oviedo, Department of Education Sciences, 33005 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Eva Garcia-Vazquez
- University of Oviedo, Functional Biology Department, 33071 Oviedo, Spain.
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Panti C, Baini M, Lusher A, Hernandez-Milan G, Bravo Rebolledo EL, Unger B, Syberg K, Simmonds MP, Fossi MC. Marine litter: One of the major threats for marine mammals. Outcomes from the European Cetacean Society workshop. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 247:72-79. [PMID: 30654256 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a pollution problem affecting thousands of marine species in all the world's seas and oceans. Marine litter, in particular plastic, has negative impacts on marine wildlife primarily due to ingestion and entanglement. Since most marine mammal species negatively interact with marine litter, a first workshop under the framework of the European Cetacean Society Conference, was held in 2017 to bring together the main experts on the topic of marine mammals and marine litter from academic and research institutes, non-governmental organisations, foundations and International Agreements. The workshop was devoted to defining the impact of marine litter on marine mammals by reviewing current knowledge, methodological advances and new data available on this emerging issue. Some case studies were also presented from European waters, such as seals and cetaceans in the North, Baltic, and Mediterranean Seas. Here, we report the main findings of the workshop, including a discussion on the research needs, the main methodological gaps, an overview of new techniques for detecting the effects of marine litter (including microplastics) on marine mammals and, also, the use of citizen science to drive awareness. The final recommendations aim to establish priority research, to define harmonised methods to detect marine litter and microplastics, enforce networking among institutions and support data sharing. The information gathered will enhance awareness and communication between scientists, young people, citizens, other stakeholders and policy makers, and thereby facilitate better implementation of international directives (e.g., the Marine Strategy Framework Directive) in order to answer the question about the actual status of our oceans and finding solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Panti
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Matteo Baini
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, Siena, 53100, Italy.
| | - Amy Lusher
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Gaustadalleen 21, 0349, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gema Hernandez-Milan
- Archipelagos Italia, Ambiente e Sviluppo/Archipelaggos, Environment and Development Calle Asiago 4 (Sant' Elena), Venice, 30132, Italy
| | - Elisa L Bravo Rebolledo
- Bureau Waardenburg, Department of Bird Ecology, PO Box 365, 4100 AJ, Culemborg, the Netherlands
| | - Bianca Unger
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Kristian Syberg
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Universitetsvej 1, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Mark P Simmonds
- School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, Bristol, BS40 5DU, UK
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, Siena, 53100, Italy
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Sharpe JD, Kaufman JA, Goldman ZE, Wolkin A, Gribble MO. Determinants of oil-spill cleanup participation following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 170:472-480. [PMID: 30640081 PMCID: PMC6361617 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND On April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded, spilling over 4.9 million barrels of oil in the Gulf of Mexico over an 87-day period and developing into a long-term environmental disaster that affected people living in Gulf Coast states. Engagement of community members in recovery efforts is important for mitigating adverse effects of disasters and accelerating the rebuilding process for impacted communities; however, few studies have explored factors that determine participation in oil spill cleanups. METHODS We analyzed data from the Gulf States Population Survey (GSPS) to study the determinants of participating in the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill cleanup. The GSPS was a random-digit dialing survey conducted on 38,361 adults in counties and parishes in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi impacted by the oil spill. Using survey estimation to account for the complex survey design, we estimated the probability of cleanup participation and used logistic regression to examine the association between sociodemographic factors and cleanup participation. RESULTS Approximately 4.7% of residents in affected Gulf communities participated in the cleanup. Most participants were young, men, non-Hispanic white, and employed. Living in an affected coastal county was associated with higher odds of participation (unadjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28-2.24), as was having excellent or very good physical health (OR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.11-3.81). Older persons were less likely to participate in the cleanup (OR for 65+ age group vs. 18-24 age group: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.05-0.36). CONCLUSIONS Understanding the demographics of cleanup participants may help inform civilian recruitment for future oil spill responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Danielle Sharpe
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - John A Kaufman
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Zachary E Goldman
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amy Wolkin
- Center for Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew O Gribble
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Locritani M, Merlino S, Abbate M. Assessing the citizen science approach as tool to increase awareness on the marine litter problem. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 140:320-329. [PMID: 30803651 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This paper provides a quantitative assessment of students' attitude and behaviors towards marine litter before and after their participation to SEACleaner, an educational and citizen science project devoted to monitor macro- and micro-litter in an Area belonging to "Pelagos Sanctuary" (Mediterranean Sea). This approach produced interesting outcomes both for the research sector of marine pollution and environmental monitoring, as well for the scientific and environmental education. Here we focus on citizen science as an effective vector for raising young people awareness of marine litter and fostering sound behaviors. A specially designed questionnaire was administered to 87 High School students, to test the validity of such approach. The results state that the students change quantitatively their perception of beach-litter causes and derived problems, and they improved their knowledge about the main marine litter sources and the role of the sea in the waste transport and deposition along the coast.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Locritani
- Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Italy.
| | - S Merlino
- Institute of Marine Sciences - Italian Research Council (CNR-ISMAR), Italy
| | - M Abbate
- Agenzia Nazionale per le Nuove Tecnologie, L'energia e lo Sviluppo Economico Sostenibile (ENEA), Italy
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Zielinski S, Botero CM, Yanes A. To clean or not to clean? A critical review of beach cleaning methods and impacts. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 139:390-401. [PMID: 30686442 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Cleaning is a fundamental concern of beach managers in many destinations as well as an important requirement in beach quality awards. However, it has been largely neglected in the literature. This paper provides an overview of empirical studies on beach cleaning and analyzes cleaning-related requirements of 11 beach awards that generate controversy in the literature. This study comments on key aspects of beach cleaning, resolves various misconceptions, and provides new perspectives by integrating related topics drawn from a wide range of literature. The arguments based on both the ecological and tourism managerial perspectives are presented, indicating the gaps and proposing research solutions. The paper calls for empirical studies with regard to the efficiency of different cleaning approaches on beaches with varying levels of use intensity and for methodological designs that separate the impacts of mechanical grooming from those of trampling, dune destruction, shore armoring, artificial lighting, among others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seweryn Zielinski
- Department of Forest Sciences, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, 151-742 Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Camilo M Botero
- Coastal Systems Research Group, Playas Corporacion, Colombia.
| | - Andrea Yanes
- Department of Civil and Environmental, University of the Coast, Calle 58, #55 - 66, Barranquilla, Colombia.
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45
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Falk-Andersson J, Berkhout BW, Abate TG. Citizen science for better management: Lessons learned from three Norwegian beach litter data sets. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 138:364-375. [PMID: 30660285 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Increased plastic consumption and poor waste management have resulted in litter representing an ever-increasing threat to the marine environment. To identify sources and evaluate mitigation measures, beach litter has been monitored. Using data from two citizen science protocols (CSPs) and OSPAR monitoring of Norwegian beaches, this study 1) identifies the most abundant litter types, 2) compares OSPAR to citizen science data, and 3) examines how to improve the management relevance of beach litter data. The dominant litter types were; food and drink- and fishery related items, and unidentifiable plastic pieces. Data from CSPs are consistent with OSPAR data in abundance and diversity, although few OSPAR beaches limit verification of CSP data. In contrast to OSPAR, the CSPs estimate the weight of the litter. CSPs lack important variables which could explain why some litter types are abundant in some particular areas. The latter could be improved by recording GPS positions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Boris Woody Berkhout
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, College of Medicine, Biological Sciences and Psychology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
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Fairchild TP, Fowler MS, Pahl S, Griffin JN. Multiple dimensions of biodiversity drive human interest in tide pool communities. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15234. [PMID: 30323240 PMCID: PMC6189033 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33155-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Activities involving observation of wild organisms (e.g. wildlife watching, tidepooling) can provide recreational and learning opportunities, with biologically diverse animal assemblages expected to be more stimulating to humans. In turn, more diverse communities may enhance human interest and facilitate provisioning of cultural services. However, no experimental tests of this biodiversity-interest hypothesis exist to date. We therefore investigated the effects of different dimensions of animal biodiversity (species richness, phyletic richness and functional diversity) on self-reported interest using tide pools as a model system. We performed two experiments by manipulating: (1) the richness of lower (species) and higher taxonomic levels (phyla) in an image based, online survey, and (2) the richness of the higher taxonomic level (phyla) in live public exhibits. In both experiments, we further quantified functional diversity, which varied freely, and within the online experiment we also included the hue diversity and colourfulness arising from the combination of organisms and the background scenes. Interest was increased by phyletic richness (both studies), animal species richness (online study) and functional diversity (online study). A structural equation model revealed that functional diversity and colourfulness (of the whole scene) also partially mediated the effects of phyletic richness on interest in the online study. In both studies, the presence of three of four phyla additively increased interest, supporting the importance of multiple, diverse phyla rather than a single particularly interesting phylum. These results provide novel experimental evidence that multiple dimensions of biodiversity enhance human interest and suggest that conservation initiatives that maintain or restore biodiversity will help stimulate interest in ecosystems, facilitating educational and recreational benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom P Fairchild
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park Campus, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom.
| | - Mike S Fowler
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park Campus, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Sabine Pahl
- School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, 22 Portland Square, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - John N Griffin
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park Campus, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
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Konecny C, Fladmark V, De la Puente S. Towards cleaner shores: Assessing the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup's most recent data on volunteer engagement and litter removal along the coast of British Columbia, Canada. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:411-417. [PMID: 30301053 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This paper analyzes voluntary cleanups organized by the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup (GCSC) along the coast of British Columbia (2013-2016). Cleanup performance indicators, litter composition and diversity were compared between years and across areas (i.e., North Coast of British Columbia, Inner Coast of Vancouver Island, West Coast of Vancouver Island, and Southern Strait of Georgia). Significant differences in parameters were found between areas but not across time. Spatial variation in trash composition and diversity was mostly related to source of litter. Trash yield per kilometre of shoreline was higher in isolated areas and in areas with exposed shorelines. The majority of recovered litter items were composed of plastic. Local actions, complementary to the GCSC, such as banning single-use, non-biodegradable takeout containers on beaches, implementing trash buyback programs, and modifying waste management and recycling regulations, are proposed as mechanisms for strengthening the prevention and mitigation of coastal pollution in British Columbia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Konecny
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Institute for the Ocean and Fisheries, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Vanessa Fladmark
- Institute for the Ocean and Fisheries, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences Department, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Santiago De la Puente
- Institute for the Ocean and Fisheries, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Hartley BL, Pahl S, Veiga J, Vlachogianni T, Vasconcelos L, Maes T, Doyle T, d'Arcy Metcalfe R, Öztürk AA, Di Berardo M, Thompson RC. Exploring public views on marine litter in Europe: Perceived causes, consequences and pathways to change. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 133:945-955. [PMID: 29910143 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.05.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a global challenge and society plays an important role via lifestyles and behaviour, including policy support. We analysed public perceptions of marine litter and contributing factors, using data from 1133 respondents across 16 European countries. People reported high levels of concern about marine litter, and the vast majority (95%) reported seeing litter when visiting the coast. The problem was attributed to product and packaging design and behaviour rather than lack of facilities or accidental loss of items. Retailers, industry and government were perceived as most responsible, but also least motivated and competent to reduce marine litter, whereas scientists and environmental groups were perceived as least responsible but most motivated and competent. Regression analyses demonstrated the importance of psychological factors such as values and social norms above sociodemographic variables. These findings are important for communications and interventions to reduce inputs of marine litter to the natural environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonny L Hartley
- School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Sabine Pahl
- School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
| | | | - Thomais Vlachogianni
- Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development (MIO-ECDSE), Greece
| | - Lia Vasconcelos
- FCT - Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Thomas Maes
- Cefas, Centre for Environment, Fisheries, Aquaculture and Science, UK
| | - Tom Doyle
- Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland; Ireland & MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Ireland
| | | | | | | | - Richard C Thompson
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
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Owens KA. Using experiential marine debris education to make an impact: Collecting debris, informing policy makers, and influencing students. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 127:804-810. [PMID: 29017724 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The Shore to Statehouse project supported the creation of an open-source, replicable, undergraduate experiential course on marine debris. Funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the course allowed undergraduate students in Connecticut, USA, to collect marine debris locally, then create a policy report for state legislators. Here we share the results of the project including data on four accumulation surveys on the Long Island Sound, as well as the impact on student motivation, attitudes, and behavior levels. Results include finding over 1600 individual pieces of debris totaling 19.4kg (42.8lb). In addition, the students experienced statistically significant improvements in knowledge and behavior scores. This open-source course can be replicated, empowering students to remove debris, provide important information to local policy makers, and improve knowledge and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A Owens
- Department of Politics, Economics, and International Studies, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06117, United States.
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Kragh G, Stafford R, Curtin S, Diaz A. Environmental volunteer well-being: Managers' perception and actual well-being of volunteers. F1000Res 2017; 5:2679. [PMID: 28184285 PMCID: PMC5288684 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.10016.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Environmental volunteering can increase well-being, but environmental volunteer well-being has rarely been compared to participant well-being associated with other types of volunteering or nature-based activities. This paper aims to use a multidimensional approach to well-being to explore the immediately experienced and later remembered well-being of environmental volunteers and to compare this to the increased well-being of participants in other types of nature-based activities and volunteering. Furthermore, it aims to compare volunteer managers’ perceptions of their volunteers’ well-being with the self-reported well-being of the volunteers.
Methods: Onsite surveys were conducted of practical conservation and biodiversity monitoring volunteers, as well as their control groups (walkers and fieldwork students, respectively), to measure general well-being before their nature-based activity and activity-related well-being immediately after their activity. Online surveys of current, former and potential volunteers and volunteer managers measured remembered volunteering-related well-being and managers’ perceptions of their volunteers’ well-being. Data were analysed based on Seligman’s multidimensional PERMA (‘positive emotion’, ‘engagement’, ‘positive relationship’, ‘meaning’, ‘achievement’) model of well-being. Factor analysis recovered three of the five PERMA elements, ‘engagement’, ‘relationship’ and ‘meaning’, as well as ‘negative emotion’ and ‘health’ as factors.
Results: Environmental volunteering significantly improved positive elements and significantly decreased negative elements of participants’ immediate well-being, and it did so more than walking or student fieldwork. Even remembering their volunteering up to six months later, volunteers rated their volunteering-related well-being higher than volunteers rated their well-being generally in life. However, volunteering was not found to have an effect on overall mean well-being generally in life. Volunteer managers did not perceive the significant increase in well-being that volunteers reported.
Conclusions: This study showed how environmental volunteering immediately improved participants’ well-being, even more than other nature-based activities. It highlights the benefit of regarding well-being as a multidimensional construct to more systematically understand, support and enhance volunteer well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitte Kragh
- Department of Life & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | - Rick Stafford
- Department of Life & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | - Susanna Curtin
- Department of Tourism and Hospitality, Faculty of Management, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | - Anita Diaz
- Department of Life & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
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