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Email the author (Login required) Characterization, accumulation patterns, and conservation implications of marine debris in Puerto López Beach, Manabí, Ecuador
Submited: 2025-08-07 10:31:56 | Published: 2026-06-30 22:44:54
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3856/vol54-issue3-fulltext-3513
Abstract
Marine debris (MD) is a growing global environmental issue, driven by unsustainable production and consumption and inadequate waste management. This study characterizes MD accumulation patterns at Puerto López Beach, Ecuador, and examines the environmental and anthropogenic factors that influence them. From April to December 2023, debris was collected every 15 ± 3 days from five sites representing different activity zones (CR: commercial/river mouth; CE: commercial and entertainment; HS: hotel and shipyard; E: ecotourism; ER: ecotourism/river mouth) using standardized protocols. Data from the CR site were treated independently, as accumulation was daily due to frequent beach cleanups conducted there. Results revealed that plastics dominated MD (79-96%), primarily plastic ropes, fragments, and single-use items, with fishing gear significantly contributing to ocean-based debris. Accumulation rates varied by site, with the highest levels at site HS near fishing and shipyard areas (972 items fortnight-1). Generalized linear models indicated that seasonal and tidal dynamics influenced debris distribution, with lower accumulation during the dry season and greater debris dispersal during higher tidal ranges. Land-based debris prevailed in tourist zones, while ecotourism areas showed more fragmented plastics, suggesting prolonged exposure. Notably, most debris originated locally, underscoring the need for targeted waste management strategies. The findings highlight the importance of site-specific interventions, such as improved disposal of fishing gear, enhanced waste infrastructure, restrictions on single-use plastics, and environmental education, to mitigate MD impacts. This study provides evidence to inform policy discussions and local conservation strategies, emphasizing the urgency of addressing plastic pollution in coastal Ecuador and its implications for marine biodiversity and tourism.
