Quantitative Analysis of Debris and Plastic Pollution on Beaches in Northern Madagascar

15 pagesMarine pollution, with the majority originating from land based sources, poses a significant threat to species in marine and coastal ecosystems. By understanding the make-up of the beach debris, more effective and targeted education and awareness programs can be developed to reduce marine pollution originating from land based sources. In this study, beach debris was recorded, quantified and classified, from three mostly sandy beaches in the northern Diana Region of Madagascar. At the time of this study there were no published reports about debris on Malagasy beaches, thus this paper provides original insight into debris composition and distribution in the region. The debris was observed and classified using transect methods and charts developed by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) complimented by visual observations. CSIRO has performed similar studies before, therefore the use of their methods made for easier data collection and allowed for ease of comparison for future studies. The abundance of debris per square metre varied between the beaches, which shows a predicted increase with usage. The beaches that had a high number of observed visitors also had a higher quantity of debris. Plastic debris density remained relatively stable between the beaches. A total of 1216 pieces of debris was recorded, with 758 pieces being of plastic, distributed at an average of 0.158 pieces of debris per square metre and 0.109 pieces of plastic per square metre. The highest total quantity of debris and plastic litter was found at Ramena followed by Ampasindava and Baïe de Sakalava