MAPPING LITTER TRAJECTORY USING “GNOME” MODEL ALONG EGYPTIAN MEDITERRANEAN COAST

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Natural conservation, EEAA, Egypt

2 Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University

3 National Water Research Center

4 Institute of environmental studies and researches, Ain Shams University

Abstract

Marine litter (ML) has recently become one of the most global prevalent pollution problems adversely affecting oceans and waterways. This study aimed to explore the vulnerability of Alexandria Governorate coastal resources to ML using General National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Operational Oil Modeling Environment (GNOME) software. Hypothetical release of ML from El-Shatby beach was simulated through three windage classes during wet and dry periods. Quantitative measurements of beach-litter were implemented using UNEP/MAP metadata through four years fieldwork surveys for identifying their quantities, materials, and sources, thus supporting simulation of their possible fate and trajectory. This study concluded that 72% of beach accumulated material was artificial polymers and that variation in climatic conditions significantly influences trajectory and distribution patterns of ML under forces of strong wind and rain fall. The most exposed sites to ML pollution were adjacent public and private beaches, historical sites, Eastern and Western harbors, and Abu-qir bay.

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Journal of Environmental Science
Volume 51, Issue 2 - Serial Number 2
Part 6: Engineering Sciences:
February 2022
Pages 1-32

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