Asensio-Montesinos, F.; López-Rodríguez, F., and Anfuso, G., 2023. Marine litter impacting beaches and mangrove forests: a characterization and assessment within the archipelago of Jambelí, Ecuador. Journal of Coastal Research, 39(3), 431–441. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208.

Litter abundance and composition were assessed at 13 sites in the Jambelí Archipelago, El Oro Province, Ecuador. The sites consisted of five beaches, which accounted for 82% of the total litter items, and eight mangrove forests, which accounted for the remaining 18%. Plastic was the most represented material on beaches and mangroves. Litter items were attributed to ocean-based sources, beach users, and aquaculture-related activities developed in the study area. Caps and lids, single-use plastics, rope, and strings were the most common items. A few sites presented similar litter composition because of their proximity and their connection through tidal channels. Authorities should focus more attention on beach litter by improving appropriate cleanup operations to enhance their environmental conditions and make them more attractive for tourism. Concerning mangrove forests, litter from aquaculture, fisheries, and tourism activities must be controlled and reduced.