Marine Litter Sources and Distribution Pathways

Abstract

Marine litter has been a global concern for many decades. It is important to understand marine litter sources and distribution pathways for the development of targeted and effective interventions and strategies. These have been relatively less researched on the African continent. This chapter focuses on (1) the sources of litter items from macro to nanoscale entering the marine environment and (2) the distribution and accumulation of these items within the environment, focusing on the African marine setting. Case studies are used to showcase specific examples and highlight knowledge/data gaps that need to be addressed within Africa. The potential pathways going forward are discussed and what may be expected in the future, in light of the challenges and successes examined.