Horst Sterr

We propose an experimental socio-ecological study of the deterrent effect of different types of natural beach wrack on humans. We hypothesize that (1) natural beach wrack is often less deterrent to humans than anthropogenic beach litter, that (2) beach wrack originating from late succession stages of seaweed communities is often less deterrent than beach wrack composed of opportunistic seaweeds, and that (3) the odor of beach wrack has more impact on its deterrent effect than visual appearance or tactile stimuli. Frequencies of beach users on selected beaches with defined debris composition will be determined and user opinions will be evaluated in a survey. This first-time study explores a new methodological approach to the development of sustainable beach cleaning concepts in coastal management.