Perception, knowledge and attitudes towards environmental issues and management among coastal users of the most important beach destination in Argentina. (1st April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seco Pon, Juan Pablo; Becherucci, María Eugenia; Paterlini, Carla Ángela; Quadri Adrogué, Agustina; Castano, Melina Vanesa; Zumpano, Francisco; García, Germán Oscar
• Is Part Of: Ocean & coastal management. Volume 220(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-04-01
• Subjects: Social survey -- Sandy beach -- Ecosystem management valuation -- Mar del plata -- Argentina -- South America; Marine resources -- Management -- Periodicals; Coastal zone management -- Periodicals; Coastal ecology -- Periodicals; Ressources marines -- Périodiques; Littoral -- Aménagement -- Périodiques; Écologie littorale -- Périodiques; Coastal ecology; Coastal zone management; Marine resources -- Management; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 551.46
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2022.106070
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0964-5691

Abstract

Abstract: This study was designed to address coastal users' perception in the largest seaside summer resort in Argentina regarding beach physical features and quality assessments, including issues related to the impacts of marine pollution, particularly litter on local beaches. We also explore the dependence of answers in certain traits of coastal users' profile (i.e. users' age, gender and residence status). There was a strong relationship of predictor variables pertaining to the respondents' profile on the users' perception about environmental related aspects as well as beach quality assessment related topics. Virtually all respondents stated acknowledging that pollution by beach litter harms marine aquatic life, with plastics being the most commonly identified litter item. Interestingly, though, the users' perception about topics related to beach litter was not affected by residence status, gender or age. Addressing the issues linked to responsible and sustainable use of the environment in coastal localities in northern Argentina like Mar del Plata should include the participation of beachgoers, as these can help to improve beach management plans and assist managers and stakeholders identifying key issues in environmental policy to be implemented by coastal jurisdictions. Highlights: Coastal users' valuation of beach management in a key Argentinean seaside summer resort. Perception re physical features and quality assessment vary giving the users' profile. Perception about beach litter was not affected by the respondents' profile. Users granted litter pollution as a risk to marine aquatic life, chiefly plastics. Beachgoers participation may assist in improving local beach management plans.