What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to evaluate the presence and impact of plastic debris on beaches along the south-eastern coast of Bangladesh.

March 4, 2026Open Access

Assessing the presence of plastics and other garbage in the major beaches along the south-eastern coast of Bangladesh

Key Points

The research aims to evaluate the presence and impact of plastic debris on beaches along the south-eastern coast of Bangladesh.
Implemented the Quadrant Method across six coastal areas
Categorized plastic debris by type and abundance
Measured the occurrence of various plastic items in the study zone
Polybags were the most abundant plastic type, comprising 33.33% of debris
Other identified categories included plastic items, containers, cigarette stubs, fishing equipment, and rope
Findings indicate significant plastic presence, impacting marine life and ecosystems

Abstract

Abstract Plastic has become omnipresent due to its distinct characteristics and accessibility, playing a pivotal role in the escalation of plastic contamination. Plastic contamination yields a range of adverse repercussions, encompassing both ecological and socioeconomic implications, as well as heightened risks to biodiversity and trophic interconnections. Beach plastic pollution exerts a detrimental influence on coastal ecology and neighbouring tourist destinations. The Quadrant Method was implemented in six distinct coastal areas to assess plastic debris within the research zone. Based on the abundance of beach plastics, these can be categorised as Polybags> Plastic Items> Plastic Containers> Cigarette Stub> Fishing Equipment> and Rope. Polybags were found at the highest rate (33.33%) within the study area. As plastic abundance is identified in different beaches, it will help study the long-term effects of plastic pollution on marine life and the effectiveness of various cleanup strategies in mitigating these impacts.

Bookmark

View Full Paper