Publications

Assessing the impact of chronic and acute plastic pollution from construction activities and other anthropogenic sources: A case study from the coast of Antofagasta, Chile
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This paper reviews the significant source of plastic contamination arising from improper application and management of expanded polystyrene (EPS) that is used as expansion joints at a construction site near the coast of Antofagasta, Chile. From the field observations and calculations, it was estimated that a staggering 82.9 million EPS spheres have the potential to be released into the environment from the 7.62 m3 of this material that was used for the construction of this coastal promenade, which constitutes a chronic source of pollution. This study documents the misuse of construction materials that contribute to plastic pollution. In addition to the EPS pollution, findings also reveal the accumulation of litter such as plastic cups, bottles, carrier bags, and several other construction materials (e.g., plastic nets, and films) that exacerbate the pollution problems within the region and potentially endanger marine and terrestrial organisms. The observations from this study highlight the urgent need for mitigating measures and intervention policies targeting construction-related plastic and microplastic pollution, along with a more robust regulatory framework for construction activities as well as adequate surveillance and enforcement.

Latest Posts

1
New NEAFC Scheme of Control and Enforcement

The Scheme of Control and Enforcement Scheme (Scheme) of the North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission (NEAFC) applies to all fishing vessels used or intended for use in fishing activities conducted on fisheries resources in the Regulatory Area. The scheme is divided into seven chapters: General Provisions (I), Control Measures (II), Monitoring of Fisheries (III), Vessel[…]

2
CMM 2018/09 Conservation and Management Measure for Control of fishing activities in the Agreement Area (Control)

For the purpose of ensuring that fishing activities are in compliance with South Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA) Conservation and Management Measures (CMMs), this CMM provides regulations that make it easier to monitor, control, and monitor fishing activities. It is the responsibility of the Contracting Parties, cooperating non-contracting party (CNCPs), and participating fishing entities (PFEs) to[…]

3
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/531

In the context of sustainable fishing activities, this Regulation establishes specific rules regarding the eligibility of costs associated with operations that aim to protect and restore marine biodiversity and ecosystems. Additionally, this Regulation addresses the eligibility of costs for operations that aim to mitigate climate change and improve the energy efficiency of fishing vessels. Furthermore,[…]

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Third CRFM Strategic Plan 2022 – 2030

The Third Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) Strategic Plan (2022-2030) sets out a clear roadmap for achieving the CRFM’s vision of effective management, conservation and sustainable use of our fisheries and aquaculture resources, to maximise social and economic benefits in the CRFM Member States. The plan was approved by the Eleventh Special Meeting of the[…]

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System Of Observation, Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement

This measure is based on the Convention on the Conservation and Management of Fishery Resources in the South East Atlantic Ocean, adopted by the Annual Meeting of the South East Atlantic Fisheries Organization (SEAFO) in 2015, establishes the System of Observation, Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement, which shall apply to all fishing vessels and fishing research[…]