Beach Cleaning Research Articles

Nitrosamine and nicotine exposure after switching from filtered to unfiltered cigarette smoking: a cross-over clinical trial

BackgroundThe cellulose acetate filter is a plastic attachment on nearly all commercial cigarettes sold worldwide. It is the main component of discarded cigarette butts, and the most prevalent waste item...

Alarming cigarette butts contamination on sandy beaches of East Java, Indonesia.

Cigarette butts, along with other plastic items, have been extensively studied as the primary source of marine litter in coastal areas around the world. Although there has been extensive research on cigarette butts in coastal areas worldwide, there have been no publications related to this in coastal areas in Indonesia. Therefore, this research is the first to report on the pollution of cigarette butts on different Indonesian beaches, specifically in the East Java Province. The study aimed to assess the abundance, size distribution, and pollution levels associated with cigarette butts from 15 different beaches. Cigarette butts were collected using a 5 × 5m quadrate transect, placed 20m apart along the coastline from December 2022 to August 2023. The collectedcigarette butts were counted andmeasured in three different sizes: 0.5-2.5cm, 2.5-5cm, and 5-10cm. A total of 323 cigarette butts were collected, with densities ranging from 0.08 to 3.32 items m-2. The majority of butts were classified as meso-size (0.5-2.5cm), suggesting incomplete smoking and a higher potential for toxin release. The Cigarette Butt Pollution Index (CBPI) revealed a spectrum of pollution levels, from low to severe, with most beaches exhibiting severe pollution. Factors such as negligent smoking behavior, inadequate waste management infrastructure, and beach environmental conditions were identified as key contributors to this pollution. This study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies, including public awareness campaigns, improved waste management, and beach clean-ups, to mitigate the environmental impact of cigarette butt pollution on Indonesian beaches.

Enhancing the Capacity of Tourism Awareness Groups in Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation at the Tanjung Batu Mangrove Ecotourism, Sekotong Tengah Village, West Lombok Regency

Mangrove Ecotourism in Tanjung Batu is one of the unique tourist attractions on Lombok Island, featuring a scenic 11-hectare mangrove area with dense vegetation coverage. The site is equipped with several facilities, including a 417-meter wooden bridge, several gazebos, selfie spots, a homestay, and a café. The ecotourism management is handled by the Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis) of Sekotong Tengah Village. This destination is quite popular, with no fewer than 300 tourists visiting each month. However, this area is prone to climate-related disaster risks such as tidal floods, strong winds, high waves, floods, and droughts. Additionally, the ecotourism management has mainly focused on physical aspects and lacks sufficient managerial skills for implementing a sustainable governance system. The proposed solution is to strengthen the Pokdarwis management to improve ecotourism governance, optimizing its potential to deliver greater social, economic, and environmental value while contributing to climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. The conclusion from the community service activity is that to address these challenges, the community is committed to preserving the mangrove ecosystem, preventing disturbances from both internal and external factors, and managing ecotourism in a way that benefits the surrounding community by reducing climate-related disaster risks. Priority activities include mangrove rehabilitation and enrichment, beach cleanup, monthly management meetings, semi-annual evaluations, and promptly developing plans to strengthen the fishermen's economy through involvement in marine tourism packages

Why are you cleaning beaches? A study on motivations of volunteer beach cleaners

Volunteers who clean beaches play a vital role in easing the harmful impact marine litter has on the environment. Understanding why people volunteer to clean beaches is important as it will help to predict the quality and quantity of participation. This study examines what motivates volunteers in beach clean-ups and identified different groups of volunteers based on their motivation. Data were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively which included exploratory factor analysis, cluster analysis, and thematic analysis. Four motivations were found in the factor analysis: environmental values, recreation, social interaction, and career and personal growth. Furthermore, the thematic analysis revealed two additional motivations: hopelessness and aesthetics. Four different volunteer segments were validated, indicating that volunteers are motivated to participate in beach clean-ups for several reasons. This study provides an understanding of motivations for a previously under-researched group of volunteers and will guide organisations to recruit and retain volunteers.

Plastic debris beaching on two remote Indian Ocean islands originates from handful of Indonesian rivers

Abstract Large amounts of plastic waste from non-local sources (>200 tonnes) wash up on Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands, two remote Indian Ocean islands, every year. Local communities on these islands organize beach clean-ups regularly to tackle this problem and, because their waste systems cannot handle the enormous amounts of plastic, predominantly incinerate the collected waste. However, as long as plastic waste keeps entering the ocean, beach clean-ups alone cannot be sustained. The first crucial step to solving this problem is to determine the main sources of plastic waste to the islands. In this study, we simulate the transport of floating plastic waste to determine the main riverine sources of plastic reaching the islands. We find that the majority of simulated plastic waste comes from just 4 Indonesian rivers: the Solo, Brantas, Ci Tanduy, and Wai Sekampung. We suggest that further numerical and field studies, as well as potential river clean-up efforts focus on these rivers to stop plastic waste inundating Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands.

Boosting beach clean-up participation through community resilience hypothetical scenarios

Engaging coastal communities in beach clean-up initiatives is crucial for the sustainability of marine ecosystems and the support of the blue economy. This study aims to examine the influence of various resilience attributes on community willingness to participate in these activities. It uses choice experiment framework to test three distinct scenarios: (1) cultural recycling education, (2) social media task force, and (3) resilience debris recovery. The study surveyed 647 valid samples from metropolitan Bali, Indonesia to assess their preferences across these scenarios. Advanced econometric models, specifically the Random Parameter Logit (RPL) and Latent Class Model (LCM), were used to analyze the data. The results indicate that integrating cultural and digital engagement strategies can significantly enhance community participation in beach clean-ups, providing a model that can be applied in various coastal regions. Each scenario improves community engagement by aligning beach clean-up efforts with broader economic and cultural dynamics.

Hydro-Rugging as Reparative Caring Encounter: Re-Membering Southern Oceanic Hauntologies

ABSTRACT Expanding beach clean-ups to more than just removing plastic from the shoreline, citizens are invited to dwell with the ecological crisis and its intersectional entanglements of historical injustices related to the ocean, through a tactile mending practice using collected rubbish. Public story-doing (Rodricks, 2024) [Towards a (strategic) sensibility of unbelonging: Full participation revisited. International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education, 1–15] is initiated by generative dialogue enabled through the material call of the collected plastic which is re-membered and mended into the Mother Hydro-rug. This making-with thinking/theorising (Haraway, 2016 [Staying with the trouble: Making kin in the Chthulucene. Duke University Press]; Manning, 2016 [The minor gesture. Duke University Press]) involves re-membering erased narratives that entangle people with the ocean. Hydro-rugging fosters reparative care practices within vulnerable communities through convivial organised events that bring together people, particularly Black and Brown bodies, together to share their memories of and with the ocean. Hydro-rugging embodies the importance of active listening and acknowledging emotions (Ahmed, 2004) [The cultural politics of emotion. University Press], engaging in a call and response with the very fabric of beach surroundings, be it the plastic or other more-than-human elements.

Beach Cleaning Action Movement as an Effort to Create Environmentally Friendly Tourism on Kapu Beach, Kolaka Regency

Kolaka is one of the districts in Southeast Sulawesi. Kolaka Regency is a coastal area located in Southeast Sulawesi Province. Kolaka is like a hidden paradise on the west coast of Sulawesi Island. As a large area that borders the sea, namely Bone Bay to the west. Kolaka Regency has a coastline that stretches for 293.45 km, decorated with white sandy beaches, clear sea water. One potential that is worth paying attention to as a tourist destination is Kapu Beach, which is located in Kapu Village, Samaturu District, Kolaka Regency. However, currently, Kapu Beach is polluted with lots of plastic and organic waste scattered around and reducing the beauty of the beach. The method used in this activity is the observation method. The first stage that was carried out began with coordination with the local government and the management of Kapu Beach. The second stage, namely checking the condition of the tourist beaches that would be cleaned, as well as preparing paint for re-tightening the trees and aesthetic photo spots. The third stage, This stage carries out the process of cleaning the beach tourism environment and painting several photo spots. What is meant by the observation method is a way of collecting information from relevant data by observing. The result of this activity for the surrounding community is to build self-awareness for the community to care about the beach and coastal environment and also be aware of the dangers of environmental pollution, considering that the location where they live is on the coast of Kapu Village. Based on the results of the service carried out, the conclusion that can be drawn from the beach clean-up activity is that it was held smoothly and in accordance with the previously planned activity structure, and cleaning up rubbish at the tourist attraction was not easy, the large number of visitors not only had a positive impact on tourist attractions but there There is also a negative impact, namely, where a lot of plastic waste is found both around the gazebo and even on the coast, there is also a lot of waste used from visitors' food. It is important to maintain the cleanliness of the beach tourism environment so that it can be managed well and optimally.

Beach litter deposition and turnover, effects of tides and weather, and implications for cleanup strategies: A case study in the Lofoten archipelago, Norway

Plastic pollution is ubiquitous in the marine environment. Beach cleanups are considered a cost-effective mitigative measure with generally few negative environmental impacts. Beached litter is not static, however, and may wash back out to sea or be buried, meaning it is only temporarily available for cleanup. We studied deposition and turnover of litter on three Arctic beaches in Lofoten, Norway, biweekly for 31 months. The mean estimated daily deposition rate was 10 items/100 m, with a median residence time of 99 days. Both processes were impacted by seasons and weather and varied both spatially and temporally. Strong winds during the fall increased litter influx and onshore winds contributed to its loss. Heavier objects and those higher on the beach persisted longer yet were still subject to turnover. Snow temporarily buries litter but protects it in the long run. Given the turnover of litter, frequent (albeit smaller) cleanups can readily remove 3–4 times more litter from circulation in the environment than larger, infrequent cleanups. With limited resources, it is recommended to prioritise late fall cleanups.

IMPACTO DA LIMPEZA DE PRAIAS NA CONSCIENTIZAÇÃO AMBIENTAL: UM ESTUDO DE CASO NA BEIRA, MOÇAMBIQUE

This study investigated the environmental awareness of volunteers during beach cleaning activities in Estoril, Beira, Mozambique. The research involved 150 volunteers, of whom 42 were interviewed. Structured questionnaires were administered after the activities to assess knowledge about marine pollution. Additionally, participant observations were conducted to record volunteer involvement and the efficiency of the cleaning activities. Quantitative analysis of the questionnaire data revealed a significant increase in environmental awareness among volunteers after participating in the activities. Qualitative analysis identified factors influencing volunteer engagement, highlighting the importance of environmental education and awareness campaigns. The main limitations of the study included the sample size and the limited observation period. The study followed strict ethical principles, ensuring informed consent from participants and confidentiality of collected data. This work contributes to the understanding of the effects of beach cleaning activities on environmental civic awareness and underscores the need for ongoing environmental education programs to promote marine conservation.

GERAKAN BERSAMA: MENJAGA KEBERSIHAN LINGKUNGAN DAN MENGURANGI SAMPAH DI PANTAI TAMENDAO GORONTALO

In the context of increasing global concern for environmental issues, beach cleaning activities at Tamendao Beach in Gorontalo have become very important as a response to the accumulation of plastic waste, which threatens the coastal environment and marine biota. This activity aims to increase public awareness of the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness, especially in coastal areas, and reduce plastic waste accumulation through cross-sector collaboration and active community participation. The methods used include initial surveys to evaluate the level of rubbish accumulation, planning cleanup strategies, resource mobilization, participant training, and beach cleanup activities involving sorting and processing rubbish. The results show success in collecting large amounts of plastic waste, increasing public environmental awareness, and showing the importance of cross-sector collaboration in maintaining a clean environment. In conclusion, this activity had a significant positive impact on the surrounding environment. It emphasized the need for a follow-up plan to ensure the sustainability of environmental conservation efforts at Tamendao Beach and the surrounding area.

Importance-performance dynamics and willingness to pay in coastal areas for climate-adaptive Marine Debris Management

This study focused on evaluating the adaptive capacity of coastal communities to manage marine debris, a critical issue intensified by the effects of human-induced climate change on the Earth's oceans. The detrimental impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and changes in ocean currents and temperatures, pose significant threats to marine ecosystems and human societies. The study specifically investigated the factors influencing the willingness to pay (WTP) for adaptive Marine Debris Management (MDM) services. It involved diverse community groups, including passive observers, compliant followers, and eco-champions, each exhibiting unique approaches and capacities for managing marine debris. The research revealed that while passive observers and compliant followers favor asset-based programs, eco-champions are more inclined towards enhancing environmental awareness and enforcing policies. A critical methodological aspect of the study was the quantification of WTP, set at IDR 10,000 /month/household, to assess the communities' financial commitment to MDM. The study found that WTP is influenced by factors such as awareness of environmental issues, behavioral responses to regulations, beach clean-up participation, environmental education, and recycling training. Of these, income emerged as the most impactful factor on WTP, followed by education level, age, place of residence, and eco-champion classification. Furthermore, the provision of adaptive MDM services positively influenced community WTP. These findings highlight the need for MDM policymakers to develop customized strategies that address different community groups' distinct needs and priorities. The study recommends that such strategies focus on improving understanding and responsiveness to environmental regulations and providing specialized educational programs. By adopting this approach, not only can the immediate challenge of marine debris be tackled, but it can also lead to the establishment of a more sustainable and community-focused model of environmental stewardship.

Garbage Monitoring And Management Using Deep Learning

Abstract. Rapid urbanisation and population growth have led to an unprecedented increase in waste generation. In addition to this, increasing tourism has also increased the challenge of maintaining coastal areas. Inefficient and inadequate waste management practices pose significant environmental and health hazards to both humans and wildlife. Through deep learning and computer vision techniques, the garbage can be identified and its location can be extracted directly from the images. Videos are collected using UAVs. Auto generation of waste reports and additional services like chat-bots are also implemented. Furthermore, the system implements OR tools using which the routes of garbage collector vehicles is optimised. By minimising travel distances and maximising cleanup efficiency, the system reduces operational costs and enhances the overall effectiveness of beach cleanup initiatives. Predominant spots of garbage are analysed and the nearest dustbins are mapped along with the route to reach the dustbin. The garbage detection model gave a mAP of 0.845. The silhouette score of clustering was 70.1% for chameleon and 99.02% for k means. All of the above mentioned modules were integrated and presented on the user interface of the application developed.

Mediating and Moderating Factors Affecting Pro-environmental Decision-Making: A Spanish Study

Abstract Because it is relevant to analyse the variables that may influence pro-environmental decision-making, the aim of this study was to analyse (a) the mediating role of perceived responsibility towards climate change (CC) in the relationship between scepticism towards CC and pro-environmental decision-making; and (b) the moderating role of implicit theories about CC (ITCC) in the relationship between responsibility and pro-environmental decision-making. For this purpose, 209 Spanish students (48.8% female, 43.1% male,and 8.1% preferring not to report their gender; mean age = 17.48, sd = 3.78) completed a questionnaire twice (two months apart) and subsequently (again, two months apart) indicated how many days they wanted to participate in a beach cleanup campaign. The results corroborate that (a) responsibility mediates the relationship between scepticism and pro-environmental decision-making, and (b) ITCC moderates the relationship between responsibility and pro-environmental decision-making. The study highlights the need to foster beliefs about the mitigation of CC and to promote reliable information in order to reduce scepticism towards CC, as well as feelings of responsibility towards CC in the field of Environmental Education.

A holistic approach for tourism carrying capacity estimation in sensitive ecological areas

AbstractMediterranean ecosystems are in the spotlight of tourism activities, with the local populations trying to make the most of them, while in parallel, the stress signs, such as habitat and biodiversity degradation, increased pollution, or beach erosion, have begun to emerge. Furthermore, this combination of exotic and delicate qualities accompanied by excessive tourist flows leads to the imperative need for sustainable tourism development studies in these areas. In the current study, aiming to develop a new holistic framework for assessing Carrying Capacity in sensitive coastal ecosystems, a combined methodology was created and tested in Balos Lagoon, a Natura 2000 area in Western Crete. The method encompasses calculating different Carrying Capacity indicators, environmental quality measurements, visitors’ perceptions identification, and finally, a multicriteria analysis to capture the stakeholders’ and local community’s viewpoints. The combined methodologies identified vital issues, including overcrowding—Effective Carrying Capacity is exceeded by 1000 people per day during the peak season—tar residue pollution, microplastics, insufficient road infrastructure and excessive car numbers exceeding capacity. Stakeholder involvement was pivotal, prioritizing twelve proposed actions to address those issues. Notably, “frequent beach clean-ups,” targeting visual impacts, emerged as the most critical action, while parking reallocation and setting a maximum daily ferry limit were also highly ranked, promising solutions to alleviate overcrowding issues. The paper offers valuable insights for future research, emphasizing the need for continuous environmental monitoring, implementation of high-priority measures, and economic valuation of natural capital. Ultimately, this research contributes to the literature by presenting a pioneering methodology for holistic assessment and sustainable tourism development in Mediterranean sensitive coastal ecosystems.

How does embracing an outdoor lifestyle and sense of responsibility impact plastic reduction efforts?

IntroductionPlastic pollution in coastal regions poses severe environmental challenges. This research aims to examine the impact of an individual's outdoor lifestyle and their perceptions of responsibility for litter management-specifically the roles of governments, businesses, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Cornwall council, and volunteers-on their engagement in activities aimed at reducing plastic pollution.MethodsThe study surveyed 972 individuals in Cornwall, UK, to gather data on their perceptions and behaviors related to plastic reduction initiatives. The survey employed binomial logistic regression tests to analyse the relationship between respondents' views on responsibility for litter management and their participation in ten different plastic-reducing activities.ResultsThe analysis revealed that individuals' perceptions of who should be responsible for managing litter significantly influence their likelihood of participating in plastic reduction activities. Notably, respondents who viewed national governments, businesses, and volunteers as responsible were more likely to engage in outdoor plastic reduction efforts, such as beach clean-ups. In contrast, attributing responsibility to the Cornwall council and NGOs was negatively correlated with participation in some plastic-reducing activities.DiscussionThe findings suggest that perceptions of responsibility play a crucial role in motivating individuals to participate in plastic reduction efforts. The positive correlation between viewing certain entities (governments, businesses, and volunteers) as responsible and increased participation highlights the potential for targeted interventions. Recommendations for enhancing plastic reduction participation include governmental policy changes, collaboration with outdoor sports groups, and the implementation of community-focused social marketing strategies to foster a collective sense of responsibility and action.

Microplastic Contamination in Seafood: Knowledge and Awareness of Fishermen and Consumers in Negombo Lagoon Area


 Microplastics (MP) are tiny plastic particles (<5 mm) which are widespread in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial ecosystems. MP become significant environmental threat and there is a possibility to end up MP in seafoods. The present study assessed the level of awareness regarding contamination of seafood with MP among consumers and fishermen in Negombo lagoon area. Data were collected from 60 participants (30 fishermen and 30 consumers) via administered questionnaire with closed- ended and open-ended questions which extract the information on awareness about MP. Findings revealed that awareness on MP were relatively low in Fishermen (36.67%) but higher in consumers (63.33%). Further 40% of fishermen and 60% of consumers had knowledge on impact of MPs on human health. However, some fishermen (56.67%) and consumers (43.33%) had no knowledge about the sources of MP. Majority of respondents had given X-press pearl (47.06%) and hotel wastage (29.41%) as the main sources of MP. Moreover, 45% of fishermen had observed plastics attached in gills and gut of fish. Respondents were generally aware that there is a risk of bioaccumulating MP after consuming seafood and apprehension regarding potential hazard to human health. Durability was the main reason for the selection of plastics used by respondents while recyclability played a lesser role. Only 36% of fishermen and 64% of consumers were found to be aware of the methods for reducing MP pollution. Both consumers and fishermen have acknowledged the importance of awareness programs on plastic pollution and its harmful effects, as well as the importance of reducing and recycling plastics in mitigating the issue. Majority of consumers (75%) and a smaller number of fishermen (25%) have actively engaged in environmental initiatives, such as beach clean-ups. All participants display a strong willingness to adopt biodegradable alternatives, emphasizing their commitment to eco-friendly practices. Educational campaigns and media awareness, coupled with stringent policy enforcement and eco- friendly plastic adoption, can mitigate plastic and microplastic pollution, addressing the ongoing issue effectively.
 
 Keywords: Microplastic, Awareness, Fishermen, Consumers, Seafood

Tri Hita Karana for environmental resilience: Enhancing coral reef conservation and sustainable practices in Mengiat Beach Bali

This collaborative international community service initiative applies the Tri Hita Karana philosophy to improve coral reef conservation at Bali''s Mengiat Beach. The collaboration between Universitas Ngurah Rai and the University of Canberra integrates traditional wisdom and innovative methods, promoting resilience, sustainable practices, and economic growth while adhering to Tri Hita Karana''s holistic principles. The initiative program combines Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and the Mars Assisted Restoration System (MARRS) to safeguard coral ecosystems. Participatory Action Research (PAR) empowers communities, aligning with the holistic principles of Tri Hita Karana. The methodology encompasses preparation, education, hands-on training, beach clean-ups, and continuous evaluation, reinforcing coral preservation while promoting sustainable practices and ecological well-being. These strategies align with the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, promoting local engagement and resource management. The donation of Reef Stars by the universities to the Bali Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Foundation reflects a commitment to environmental well-being and long-term harmony. The Mengiat Beach collaboration by two universities and the Bali Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Foundation integrates traditional wisdom and modern methods within the Tri Hita Karana philosophy. Through education, training, and reef restoration, the initiative emphasizes community engagement and ecological resilience.

PEMAPARAN TEORI MANAJEMEN DAN AKUNTANSI PADA MASYARAKAT PANTAI NONGSA BATAM

Nongsa Beach is one of the tourist beaches that is integrated with residential communities. Many residents make beach tourism their livelihood. This service activity aims to convey management and accounting concepts to the Nongsa Beach community. The service method is the lecture method. Apart from delivering material, service activities were also followed by beach cleaning and distribution of basic food packages. The aim of this activity is to empower the community and for education for students. The service activity concluded that society needs management and accounting theory but it would be even better if it was packaged with ready-to-use technology.

PEMBERSIHAN PANTAI DAN PENANAMAN LIMA RIBU MANGROVE MAHASISWA DENGAN MASYARAKAT DESA MANGUNHARJO SEMARANG BARAT

PEMBERSIHAN PANTAI DAN PENANAMAN LIMA RIBU MANGROVE MAHASISWA DENGAN MASYARAKAT DESA MANGUNHARJO SEMARANG BARAT