Characterization of Marine Debris in Marmara Sea

Abstract

Marine debris is a global issue. It is proper to know the characterization of marine debris for determining the applicable strategies. For that reason, this study was conducted at 10 different locations of Marmara Sea within the boundaries of Istanbul Province, which is one of the most strategic location of our country. As a result of the study, it was determined that, sea surface debris were composed of 69.66% biodegradable wastes, 26.98% recyclable wastes, 0.34% hazardous waste, 2.56% textile waste, 0.04% diaper, 0.18% non-burning materials and 0.23% burnin materials, while sea coast wastes were composed of 65.36% biodegradable waste, 27.77% recyclable waste, 0.39% hazardous waste, 6.47% textile waste and 0.02% nonburning materials.