Psammophytes as traps for beach litter in the Strait of Messina (Mediterranean Sea)

• DOI: 10.1016/j.rsma.2023.103057
• Publication Date: 2023-06-20T01:21:28Z
• Authors: M. Mancuso; G. Genovese; N. Porcino; S. Natale; A. Crisafulli; D. Spagnuolo; M. Catalfamo; M. Morabito; T. Bottari
• Keywords: Litter; Marine debris; Plastic pollution

In the present paper, for first time, presence of beach litter in dunal plants has been verified a Strait area an island. The aims study were to evaluate if psammophytes can act as trap beached litter, compare located beaches with different anthropogenic impacts, and describe new approach (namely clean patch index, CPI) evaluated cleanliness plants. total 738 macro items, belonging 7 categories found area. main category collected was plastic, followed by ceramic, glass, paper/cardboard, metal, sanitary waste, medical waste. Our results showed that acted sink trapping it. CPI higher than relatives control patches. average dissimilarity between "Montorsoli" "Pylon" 88.7%. highest contribution two construction material, polystyrene plastic pieces. data could be important implementation monitoring program within Marine Strategy Framework Directive, may also contribute development specific management clean-up measures well implement National Regional action plans.