A.T. Williams, P. Randerson, O.A. Alharbi, From a millennium base line
to 2012: Beach litter changes in Wales, Marine Pollution Bulletin,
Volume 84, Issues 1?2, 15 July 2014, Pages 17-26, ISSN 0025-326X,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2014.05.017.
(http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X14002951)
Abstract: Forty-five beaches at 41 bathing area locations in Wales were
analysed for litter in 2000 and 2012, via a standard seven category
checklist. Fourteen resorts, 2 urban, 11 village, 15 rural 3 remote,
were graded, A to D. A grade beach numbers changed from 5 to19; B, 27 to
24; C, 9 to 2; D, 4 to 0, many beaches maintaining their current status.
Assuming trend continuance within the next 12 years, the A:B grade ratio
would approach equilibrium of 44:56, with no grade C or D beaches.
Recreational litter was ubiquitous; fishing materials prevalent along
Cardigan Bay. New water treatment plant investment reduced sewage
related debris. Despite apparent increased awareness of beach litter,
improving visitor behaviour through information/education should be a
future priority. Removing a few gross items could improve beach grades
at little cost to local authorities and benefits to the Welsh economy.
Keywords: Beach litter; Wales; Public recreation; Markov model