plastic litter in Ko Chang marine national parks, TRAT, Thailand

Tese mest. , Gestão da Água e da Costa, 2009, Universidade do AlgarveSolid waste and wastewater pollution issues in Ko Chang Island, a MNP in the eastern region of Thailand have been of concern recently due to rapid growth in tourism. Plastics in the coastal zone are a problem and the major source of input has been land-based litter. The objectives of this study was to: (a) identify source of plastics litter on beaches, (b) investigate local and visitors’ perception on the impacts of beach litter on tourism, and (c) explore and assess the present beach litter management of Ko Chang Island. Best management plans that could be used in Ko Chang, Thailand, were sought through surveying the litter management at Faro, Portugal (holding a Blue Flag award) and through literature survey to form guidelines for plastic litter management. Beach litter survey indicated plastics to be the major source of litter (63.1%) on beaches coming as drink and food-related (39.6%) mainly contributed by the Recreational and Beach visitor (62%). Tourists and shop vendors were thus considered to be two main litter distributors to environment. Survey results complimented to the interviewees’ perceptions. Inappropriate coastal scenic view was major impact of beach litter and beach cleanliness was important for tourism in Ko Chang. Although, serious management of beach litter was found to be lacking, majority of interviewees were satisfied with the management present. Emphasis should prioritize education, provision of waste facilities followed by legislations for effective feasibility in tackling tourism-related litter. Beach clean-up activities were found to be one of the good methods of education at regional level. A campaign was proposed as part of the guidelines