Abstract
A review of the issues surrounding beach quality management forms the background to the current study. At more than 400 locations around the UK the nature, quantity and distribution of marine debris was assessed by volunteers. Microbiological water quality assessments were also undertaken at selected sites. The study aimed to gather data in a form which could be used to assess effectiveness of current management of beach litter and to further assess the suitability of the project as a diagnostic and monitoring tool for coastal managers. The study identified the baseline levels of nine categories of litter around the UK coastline. From 1992 to 1994 it was found that the litter was not evenly distributed between the regions investigated (p<0. 001). Three regions were selected for detailed study - the South East and East of England and the Grampian region of Scotland. There was no significant difference in the quantities of litter recorded for the South East and East of England. Significant differences were noted between quantities of some items recorded for the South East and the Grampian regions (range p<0.05 - p<0.001). In all cases distribution of litter was uneven between years (p<0. 001). Season was shown to have no significant effect on the quantities of debris recorded. Medical waste is identified as one of a number of potential aesthetic health indicators to supplement the conventional bacteriological indicators of water quality. The investigation confirms the unreliability of microbiological sampling, including the variability that can occur using different culture media and different techniques. In addition, a novel index of the degree of pollution is suggested. The study highlights several ways in which beach quality may be improved. Current beach litter management policies are largely ineffective - local authorities should co-operate regionally to produce long-term reductions in quantities of coastal litter: A revised water quality classification system, including aesthetic standards for bathing beaches is suggested, and the development of a national beach registration scheme is proposed.