Spatial and temporal variations in beach litter on the Transkei coast of South Africa

The quantity and composition of litter found along an undeveloped coastline in South Africa are described. Small to medium-scale spatial variations in debris deposited over an unknown period on three beaches at two localities were examined. The mean counts and weights of the litter accumulated varied from 19.6 to 72.5 items and from 42.8–164.1 g m−1 of shore, respectively. Significant differences in counts were evident amongst areas-within-shores, but not amongst shores-within-locations nor between locations. Plastics accounted for ca 83% of the total counts and ca 47% of the total weight. Popular tourist beaches had the widest range of litter types. Temporal differences in the accumulation of newly-deposited debris were also assessed. Mean monthly estimates varied from 1.4 to 9.8 new items and from 3.4–25.0 g m−1 of shore. The composition of the newly-deposited litter was similar to that accumulated over an unspecified time period. Difficulties in comparing studies are highlighted in the discussion.