Inferences of waste management policy and reduction of marine debris in Southern Taiwan

Increasing marine debris destroys the aesthetic beauty of seashores and causes high potential risks to marine life and human health. In this study, marine debris was investigated along the Southern coastline of Taiwan at 26 spots, including seashores and fish ports at three different geography types in all four seasons after the neap and spring ides during June-2018-May-2019. The debris density was determined using the Strip Transect Method, and the coordinates were recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS). Composition and sources of debris were also assessed, and the results of 48 surveys at 6 experimental sites were compared with the National Marine Debris Monitoring Program (NMDMP) of US EPA. Total 9313 waste items were recorded, and it was observed that debris concentration varied a lot with a change in location and geography type, whereas the change in seasons and tide types showed an insignificant difference. Overall results showed that more debris were found on rocky shores than fishing spots and sandy beaches. Plastic was the major contributor along with recreational activities as a major debris source. This survey suggests increasing the cleaning rate, following plastic-use-reducing policy, and promoting public awareness through proper education and the establishment of a debris monitoring system. It was also observed that waste management policy influences marine debris concentration, so proper management and laws could help overcome this issue.