Abstract：
Finding time-efficient and cost-effective data collection methods is a challenge when addressing aquatic litter pollution on a global scale. In this study, we analysed data on aquatic benthic debris collected worldwide by volunteer scuba divers through the Dive Against Debris® citizen science initiative, examining its relationship with spatial and socio-economic factors. Plastic-dominated litter was found in both marine (64 %) and freshwater (48 %) environments, followed by metal and glass. Lower litter abundances have been recorded in high income countries such as in Europe, Central Asia and North America. Plastic fragments and fishing lines were the most abundant seafloor litter items, while takeaway containers (aluminium cans, glass bottles) were dominant in freshwater environments. Single-use plastics, including objects for food and beverage consumption, accounted for about 1/3 of the total benthic aquatic debris. Our findings highlight the need to prioritise the fishing industry and change our fast-paced modern lifestyle. Citizen science initiatives, once data cleanup is conducted to overcome any bias, can provide valuable tools for better understanding and quantifying marine litter pollution. The outcomes gained can be leveraged to improve consumer awareness and inform environmental policies aimed at addressing aquatic litter pollution more effectively.
摘要：
在全球范围内解决水生垃圾污染问题时，寻找具有时间效率和成本效益的数据收集方法是一项挑战。在这项研究中,我们分析了由志愿潜水员通过DiveAgainstDebris®公民科学倡议在全球范围内收集的水生底栖生物碎片的数据，考察其与空间和社会经济因素的关系。在海洋（64％）和淡水（48％）环境中都发现了以塑料为主的垃圾，其次是金属和玻璃。在欧洲等高收入国家，垃圾丰度较低，中亚和北美。塑料碎片和鱼线是最丰富的海底垃圾物品，而外卖容器(铝罐，玻璃瓶）在淡水环境中占主导地位。一次性塑料,包括食品和饮料消费对象，约占总底栖水生垃圾的1/3。我们的发现强调了优先考虑渔业和改变我们快节奏的现代生活方式的必要性。公民科学倡议，一旦进行数据清理以克服任何偏见，可以为更好地理解和量化海洋垃圾污染提供有价值的工具。可以利用所获得的成果来提高消费者的意识，并为旨在更有效地解决水生垃圾污染的环境政策提供信息。
