DETERMINING OF MACROPLASTIC POLLUTION IN SOUTHEAST BLACK SEA: A CASE STUDY OF MANAHOZ STREAM

Given the possibility of its chemical particle disintegration, monitoring the distribution of macroplastics in water bodies is crucial. Anthropogenic activities that are not supported by sufficient waste management systems are the source of macroplastic abundance. The primary goal of the research is to gather waste that is 2.5 cm or larger in macroplastic and transport it from the upper stream to the estuary. This investigation was carried out in the summer of 2022. The litter that was gathered was categorized using OSPAR's litter categorization system, which allowed for a thorough assessment of the qualitative and quantitative elements of plastic garbage to ascertain its distribution within the study area. A total of 884 plastic waste items were gathered, the majority of which are single-use plastic items such styrofoam, plastic bottles, food and drink containers, and cigarette butts. The stations in Koprubaşı town and those close to the stream mouth are the most contaminated out of the six. Despite local waste management efforts, the study's findings showed that plastic pollution in the locations is still a substantial problem. The lack of knowledge and care about the effects of plastic waste on the environment among both locals and tourists is the cause of these problems. Regarding waste management practices and controlling the use of single-use plastic products to reduce plastic pollution in the area, these findings should serve as a warning to local authorities.