Index based approach for assessment of abundance of marine debris and status of marine pollution in Kandakuliya, Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Marine debris accumulation and contamination have become escalating yet disastrous environmental impacts in marine ecosystems at present Sri Lanka context. Thus, we conducted this study to assess the marine debris abundance and density in randomly selected sites (n = 6) of Kandakuliya beach, Negombo, Sri Lanka. Marine debris density was used to explore the extent of beach pollution from marine debris. 13 types of marine debris were found including sub types of marine debris. Higher abundance of fragment marine debris can be seen rather than whole marine debris in each site. Moreover, a significant difference of mean abundance of hard plastic was observed among 6 sites as spatial variation of hazardous marine debris. According to Clean Coast Index (CCI), site 1 was classified as the “extremely dirty”, while site 2 - site 4 were classified as “dirty”. As per the Hazardous Items Index (HII), site 1 - site 4 were grouped under the category (IV). Further according to Plastic Abundance Index (PAI) categories, site 1 was grouped as “high level of plastic contamination”, while site 2 and site 4 were grouped as “high to moderate level of plastic contamination”. Accumulation of hazardous and non-degradable waste carried away by wind and ocean current from unsustainable fishing practices, mismanagement of solid waste, destructive recreational activities have been recorded as main sources for observed marine debris on the beach. In conclusion, study showed that there exists a substantial need in incorporating marine beach and coastal management framework to preserve these ecosystems. Despites raising awareness and education, and beach cleanup initiatives, we suggest introduction of new waste management methods (especially, gears and boat waste) through innovation, strengthening legislation and regulations, corporate responsibility, and advanced research and development as further management steps must be taken to conserve the beach in Kandakuliya.