Environmentalists have raised severe issues concerning the mounting air pollution attributable to discarded cigarette butts on seashores within the south Mediterranean area, significantly in Antalya. Cigarette butts, hidden amongst pebbles and sand, have changed into a rising menace to marine life as they finally enter the ocean.
Notably, Konyaaltı Beach, a preferred trip vacation spot for native and international vacationers, has witnessed an alarming density of cigarette butts. Professor Mehmet Gökoğlu, the Faculty of Fisheries at Akdeniz University (AU), expressed misery over the state of affairs.
Members of the Akdeniz University (AU) Underwater Society performed dives to review the seabed and found a startling accumulation of cigarette butts in shallow areas. The sight left the scholars astonished.
“It’s disheartening to witness the lack of environmental consciousness among beach-goers, especially during the bustling summer months,” remarked Gökoğlu. “Tourists often leave behind plastic-packaged food, soft drink cans, seeds, mussel shells, cigarette butts and other trash on the beach. Unfortunately, these items gradually get into the sea through wind and tides, leading to plastic and waste pollution in the marine environment.”
Gökoğlu additional revealed that lots of of cigarette butts have been collected from one sq. meter on the seaside. The sight of cigarette butts resembling cotton heaps scattered on the seabed was much more alarming. Cigarette butts, along with nicotine, include varied chemical compounds that pollute seawater and pose a big menace to marine life. The visible air pollution attributable to the buildup of waste on the seabed, together with microplastics, has a direct influence on sea creatures. Ultimately, this air pollution will also be transferred to people by seafood consumption.
“The severity of the issue cannot be understated,” emphasised Gökoğlu. “Numerous studies have highlighted the detrimental effects of cigarette butts on ecosystems. Not only do they hinder plant growth, but they also contribute to nearly half of the forest fires in Türkiye. Additionally, cigarette butts make up almost 40% of the accumulated garbage. Expert research warns of their role in deforestation, water and soil damage, as well as acidification – all of which pose serious risks to our natural environment.”
The state of affairs at Konyaaltı Beach serves as a stark reminder of the pressing want to guard and protect our pure environment. As beach-goers flock to Antalya’s gorgeous shores, it’s essential to advertise accountable waste disposal and lift consciousness concerning the far-reaching penalties of cigarette butt air pollution on the delicate marine ecosystem. Only by collective efforts and environmental consciousness can the wonder and biodiversity of Antalya’s marine life be safeguarded for future generations.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
