A NATURAL BARRIER ON THE COAST: THE ABILITY OF COASTAL PLANT COMMUNITIES TO CAPTURE MARINE DEBRIS

Abstract

Coastal plant communities act as natural barriers to capture or intercept marine debris on the coast, thus reducing the risk of recurrent interior pollution. This study also examines whether these communities, known for capturing flying sand, can similarly intercept marine debris, reinforcing their role as natural barriers. Findings indicate that coastal plant communities more effectively capture Styrofoam debris, par-ticularly particles ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 cm in size, commonly found in the Carex kobomugi community. The results of this study can inform coastal ecological restoration projects and guide the cultivation of plants on artificial coasts. Additionally, they offer insights into mitigating the detrimental effects of aesthetically displeasing marine litter on the tourism value of beaches.