Journal article
Patterns of marine debris distribution on the beaches of Rottnest Island, Western Australia
Marine Pollution Bulletin, Vol.88(1-2), pp.188-193
2014
Metrics
44 Record Views
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This output has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:
Source: InCites
Abstract
<p>Rottnest Island, Western Australia, receives >500,000 visitors y<sup>−1</sup>, who are mainly attracted by the Island’s natural values. Marine debris is a threat to both these natural values and to Island wildlife, and is consequently an important issue for managers. Engaging with volunteers, we quantified marine debris at 16 beach sites around the Island. The highest loads occurred on the SW coast and primarily comprised items originating from fishing activities. Sites on the NE coast, where >95% of the Island’s accommodation is located, supported the highest abundance of items deposited <em>in situ</em> (e.g. bottles and cigarette butts). We conclude that marine debris management may require a range of strategies to address the different primary sources. Raising awareness through education and intervention may be highly effective at popular beaches on the NE coast, but broader liaison with commercial and recreational fishers will be necessary to address the issue at the Island scale.</p>
Details
- Title
- Patterns of marine debris distribution on the beaches of Rottnest Island, Western Australia
- Creators
- Stephen DA Smith - Southern Cross UniversityChris L Gillies - Earthwatch Institute AustraliaHelen Shortland-Jones - Rottnest Island Authority
- Publication Details
- Marine Pollution Bulletin, Vol.88(1-2), pp.188-193
- Identifiers
- 3546; 991012820599002368
- Academic Unit
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering; Faculty of Science and Engineering
- Resource Type
- Journal article