Evaluation of solid waste found on the beaches of the Costa Verde, Lima, Peru, during the Winter of 2021

Abstract

Solid waste in coastal marine ecosystems is a growing problem globally and this is usually a consequence of anthropogenic activity conducted on beaches. In this study, we evaluate the amount of solid waste found on four Costa Verde beaches during the winter of 2021, through a sampling carried out by collecting solid waste employing the sweeping method, taking into account the total area of ​​each of the evaluated beaches. A total of 2,044 units of solid waste weighing 34,361 g were recorded across all the evaluated beaches, and the densities recorded were as follows; 0.51 g/m², 1.65g/m², 2.74 g/m², 3.88 g/m², for the Yuyos, Punta Roquitas, Makaja and Pescadores beaches, respectively. In addition, it was found that the most representative category of solid waste units was plastic, with 67%, followed by paper with 11% and wood with 8%. In terms of waste composition, Punta Roquitas was the beach which exhibited the greatest difference, compared to the other beaches. Evaluating the abundance and composition of anthropogenic waste on beaches is important, in order to gain a better understanding of their sources of origin, and for the development of administrative decisions with the goal of preventing, reducing and controlling the problems caused by marine waste.