Evaluating marine debris pollution: A study of Sandspit and Clifton beaches in Karachi coast.

Abstract

Marine debris poses a significant threat to the coastal environment and marine life as a whole. This study examines the presence, quantity, and composition of marine debris on Sandspit and Clifton beaches (commonly known as Sea View) in Karachi, Pakistan, as well as the impact of debris on marine ecosystems and sea turtle nesting sites. During the study, samples of various types of debris were collected and analyzed using a random sampling method at differ-ent points along each beach. According to the results, plastic was found to be the most common type of debris on both beaches, representing a substantial portion of the total waste. Other common types of debris included paper waste, tetra packs, wood, Styrofoam, medical waste, and other materials. The study revealed that beach pollution poses a serious threat to sea turtles, particularly due to entanglement in fishing nets and ingestion of plastic waste. Based on the findings, recommendations are proposed to improve waste management and reduce pollution along the coastline.