Occurrence of Plastic Debris on Beaches in Rivers State, Nigeria

Marine plastic debris poses severe ecological and public health risks to coastal ecosystems worldwide, and Nigeria's coastline is increasingly affected by this growing pollution crisis. This study investigates the occurrence, composition, and spatial distribution of plastic debris on three selected beaches in Rivers State, South South Nigeria: Rumuola Beach, Finima Beach on Bonny Island, and Bodo Creek Shoreline. Standardised beach surveys following the OSPAR Beach Litter Protocol are conducted quarterly in 2024, with debris categorised by type, size class (macroplastic, mesoplastic), polymer category, and probable source. A total of 100-metre transects are demarcated at each site, and all visible plastic items are collected, counted, weighed, and photographed. Complementary interviews with beach users, fishermen, and local government sanitation officials provide insights into waste management practices and community awareness. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy is applied to identify polymer composition of selected samples. Findings are expected to reveal dominance of single-use plastics including sachets, bottles, and packaging films, reflecting inadequate municipal solid waste management in Port Harcourt. Seasonal patterns linked to rainfall and river discharge are also analysed. The study recommends expanded extended producer responsibility policies, community-led beach clean-up frameworks, and stronger enforcement of the National Environmental (Sanitation and Waste Control) Regulations. Keywords: marine plastic debris, beach pollution, Rivers State, single-use plastics, coastal litter surveys