Marine debris on the coast of Southwest Nova Scotia : an analysis

Abstract

This thesis analyzes the levels of marine debris on the coastline of Southwest Nova Scotia and draws possible conclusions for the observed degree of pollution. The plentiful stocks of lobster, scallop, herring, and other marine life in the Atlantic waters surrounding Nova Scotia have led to the creation of multiple commercial fisheries in the Atlantic Canadian region; in addition to the Indigenous fishery that has existed predating Canadian federation. This research sought to identify explanatory variables that could be used to explain the variances in debris levels at different beach sites. It was found that factors relating to the commercial fishing industry may not be as relevant to determining the debris levels as one may think.