The impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on marine litter pollution along the Kenyan Coast: A synthesis after 100 days following the first reported case in Kenya

The contribution of COVID-19 pandemic to marine litter pollution was studied in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale counties of Kenya, in June 2020 (100 days following the first confirmed case in Kenya). Standing stock surveys were conducted in 14 streets and 21 beaches while 157 transects were surveyed for floating litter. COVID-19 related items contributed up to 16.5% of the total litter encountered along the streets. The urban beaches (Mkomani and Nyali) had the highest quantities of COVID-19 related items (55.1% and 2.6% respectively) attributable to the ability to purchase single-use products and lifestyle. Most of the recreational beaches had no COVID-19 related products which could be attributed to the presidential directive on beach closure as a COVID-19 contingency measure. No COVID-19 related litter was found in the floating litter. Generally, beach closure and cessation of movement reduced the amount of litter that leaked to the marine environment.

Automated summary

The study examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on marine litter pollution in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale counties of Kenya in June 2020, revealing that urban beaches had a higher proportion of COVID-19 related items due to purchasing habits and lifestyle choices. In contrast, recreational beaches showed minimal presence of COVID-19 related products, likely due to the beach closure directive as a contingency measure. Overall, beach closures and restricted movement helped reduce litter leakage into the marine environment.