Masters Thesis

Solid waste contamination on southern California coastal beaches

The global phenomenon of beach pollution by solid waste contamination is widespread. Recreational beaches that attract millions of visitors each year are especially impacted. Similarly, beaches that have fewer visitors still contain a significant amount of solid waste. This study examined the amount and type of solid wastes that are found on Zuma Beach and Nicholas Canyon Beach by comparing the common types, quantity, and temporal changes of debris accumulation over two months in 2018 and three months in 2020 at both sites. This study used the standing-stock survey method to analyze the spatiotemporal distribution of solid waste. This method was conducted once a week throughout September to October in 2018 and August to October in 2020 at both sites. It was hypothesized that the spatiotemporal analysis would show a higher amount of solid waste at Zuma Beach compared to Nicholas Canyon Beach owing to increased visits of beachgoers. Also, it was hypothesized there would be a significant difference found between 2018 and 2020 for the individual sites owing to increased use in 2020. Additionally, it was expected that significant differences would be found between the plastic material type with the other major material types collectively. This study used a t-test to determine the differences of debris between both beaches and individual beaches between the years as well as an analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine the differences of major material types. The mean density of marine debris was 0.036 ± 0.026 items/m2 and the major types were plastic and processed lumber. The average count of the individual pieces of debris was lower at Nicholas Canyon Beach than at Zuma Beach, which could be attributed to fewer beachgoers. This study will help researchers, coastal managers, and non-profit organizations to organize beach clean-ups suitable for the coast of southern California based on beach characteristics including tourism and the potential sources of debris accumulation. Also, the results of this study provide a foundation for educational campaigns to bring awareness to locals and tourists to reduce beach waste contributing to degradation of coastal ecosystems.

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