Luis-Bernardo Vázquez, Ana Victoria Mansilla-Garcia, Michelle García-Arroyo, Ian MacGregor-Fors
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
The influx of international debris, especially plastic, has emerged as a significant environmental challenge for coastal ecosystems. Our study on Cozumel Island (Mexico) investigated the origin and distribution of plastic debris across nine beaches, considering factors such as wind patterns and ocean currents. Results revealed that over 90% of the waste, for which provenance could be confirmed, originated from outside the island, reflecting the global nature of marine pollution. High densities of plastic debris were found on windward beaches, with waste originating from at least 25 countries. This study underscores the pressing need for international cooperation and sustainable waste management strategies to mitigate the environmental impact of marine debris on Cozumel and similar regions. Effective policies combining ecological preservation and sustainable tourism are crucial for addressing the international issue of plastic pollution and safeguarding coastal ecosystems worldwide.
期刊介绍：
Explores the link between anthropogenic activities and the environment, Ambio encourages multi- or interdisciplinary submissions with explicit management or policy recommendations.
Ambio addresses the scientific, social, economic, and cultural factors that influence the condition of the human environment. Ambio particularly encourages multi- or inter-disciplinary submissions with explicit management or policy recommendations.
For more than 45 years Ambio has brought international perspective to important developments in environmental research, policy and related activities for an international readership of specialists, generalists, students, decision-makers and interested laymen.
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