Perception, knowledge and attitudes towards environmental issues and management among coastal users of the most important beach destination in Argentina

Abstract

This study was designed to address coastal users' perception in the largest seaside summer resort in Argentina regarding beach physical features and quality assessments, including issues related to the impacts of marine pollution, particularly litter on local beaches. We also explore the dependence of answers in certain traits of coastal users' profile (i.e. users’ age, gender and residence status). There was a strong relationship of predictor variables pertaining to the respondents' profile on the users' perception about environmental related aspects as well as beach quality assessment related topics. Virtually all respondents stated acknowledging that pollution by beach litter harms marine aquatic life, with plastics being the most commonly identified litter item. Interestingly, though, the users' perception about topics related to beach litter was not affected by residence status, gender or age. Addressing the issues linked to responsible and sustainable use of the environment in coastal localities in northern Argentina like Mar del Plata should include the participation of beachgoers, as these can help to improve beach management plans and assist managers and stakeholders identifying key issues in environmental policy to be implemented by coastal jurisdictions.