title: Coastal debris analysis in beaches of Chonburi Province, eastern of Thailand as implications for coastal conservation.
abstract: This study quantified coastal debris along 3 beaches (Angsila, Bangsaen, Samaesarn) in eastern coast of Thailand. Debris samples were collected from lower and upper strata of these beaches during wet and dry seasons. The results showed that Bangsaen had the highest average debris density (15.5m-2) followed by Samaesarn (8.10m-2), and Angsila (5.54m-2). Among the 12 debris categories, the most abundant debris type was plastics (>45% of the total debris) in all beach locations. Coastal debris distribution was related to economic activities in the vicinity. Fishery and shell-fish aquaculture activities were primary sources of debris in Angsila while tourism activities were main sources in Bangsaen and Samaesarn. Site-specific pollution control mechanisms (environmental awareness, reuse and recycling) are recommended to reduce public littering. Management actions in Angsila should focus on fishery and shell-fish culture practices, while Bangsaen and Samaesarn should be directed toward leisure activities promoting waste management.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Department of Animal Science, Uva Wellassa University, Passara Road, Badulla, Sri Lanka. Electronic address: thusharin@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Gajahin Gamage Nadeeka
authors.initials: GG
authors.lastname: Thushari
authors.affiliation: Reef Biology Research Group, Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
authors.forename: Suchana
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Chavanich
authors.affiliation: Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management, School of Environment, Resources and Development, Asian Institute of Technology, P.O. Box 4, Klongluang, Pathumthani, 12120, Thailand.
authors.forename: Amararatne
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Yakupitiyage
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001493:Bathing Beaches; D004784:Environmental Monitoring; D004787:Environmental Pollution; D010969:Plastics; D013785:Thailand; D014866:Waste Products
chemical_list: D010969:Plastics; D014866:Waste Products
keywords: Anthropogenic activities; Coastal debris; Litter accumulation rate; Pollution management actions; Seasonal variation; Spatial variability