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The collateral effects of COVID-19 on coastal and marine environments
Summary
During COVID lockdowns, oceans got a temporary break from tourism and pollution, but that upside was offset by a flood of discarded masks, gloves, and other single-use plastics that ended up in coastal waters. This review of existing research shows how these plastics can break down into microplastics that enter the food chain, and it stresses that protecting ocean health during future crises means planning better waste management from the start, not just relying on reduced human activity as a fix.
The COVID-19 pandemic has generated a global health and economic crisis, significantly impacting coastal and marine environments. Lockdowns and restrictions, while necessary for public health, led to both positive and negative environmental consequences. Reduced human activity resulted in decreased pollution and habitat disruption, allowing for ecosystem recovery and improved water quality. However, the surge in single-use plastics and personal protective equipment (PPE) during the pandemic exacerbated plastic pollution. Additionally, the economic downturn severely affected coastal communities reliant on tourism and fisheries, highlighting the need for sustainable recovery strategies. This Special Issue explores these collateral effects, emphasizing the importance of adaptive management and resilient governance in safeguarding coastal and marine ecosystems against future crises.