Characterization of macroplastics in the mangrove ecosystems of Baganga, Davao Oriental, Philippines
Paper Details
Characterization of macroplastics in the mangrove ecosystems of Baganga, Davao Oriental, Philippines
Abstract
Mangrove ecosystems can trap plastic debris transported by tides, runoff, and nearby human activities, making them vulnerable to macroplastic accumulation. This study characterized macroplastic litter in the mangrove ecosystems of Barangay Lucod and Barangay Kinablangan, Baganga, Davao Oriental, Philippines. Macroplastics were collected during low tide using belt transects and 10 × 10 m quadrats established across landward, middleward, and seaward zones. Collected items were cleaned, air-dried, counted, weighed, and classified according to litter type. A total of 139 macroplastic items weighing approximately 4,246.5 g were recorded. Barangay Lucod had the highest number of macroplastic items, particularly in the landward zone, while Barangay Kinablangan showed the greatest accumulation by weight in the middleward zone. Plastic bags were the most dominant litter type, followed by plastic bottles, diapers, ropes or strings, food containers, and bottle caps or lids. The results indicate that household-related plastic waste, tidal movement, and mangrove-root retention contribute to macroplastic accumulation in the study area. These findings provide baseline information for monitoring and managing macroplastic pollution in Baganga’s mangrove ecosystems.
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