2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 9
Available Online: 5 May 2026
Author/s:
Boncodin, Jane*
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (Pasacao Campus), Philippines (jane.boncodin@cbsua.edu.ph)
Cedilla, Michelle
Salceda, Jessa Mae
Isuga, Clarence
Alcibor, Rey
Umbao, Bryan Vincent
Moron, Bernyl
Nolasco, Michael
Abstract:
This study aims to characterize marine litter in Caranan, Pasacao, Camarines Sur by categorizing litter according to volume, size category, and litter grade, and by assessing beach cleanliness using the Clean Coast Index. A quantitative descriptive approach was employed, including observations and a Waste Analysis and Characterization Study (WACS). Results indicated that Station 1 (shore) had five types of litter compositions: residual for disposal, biodegradable, recyclables, residual with potential for recycling, and special waste. Station 2 (sea) contained biodegradable, recyclables, residual for disposal, and residual with potential for recycling. The predominant plastic size categories at Station 1 were mega, macro, and meso plastics, whereas Station 2 had macro and meso plastics only. Both stations received litter grades of Good (B) and Fair (C). Beach cleanliness was rated as moderately dirty at both stations. This study concludes a diverse composition of marine litter in Caranan, Pasacao, with both shoreline and sea stations containing various types of waste, including biodegradable, recyclable materials, residual for disposal, residual with potential for recycling a special waste. The presence of predominantly larger plastic debris such as mega, macro, and meso plastics highlights the extent of pollution. Although the litter grades suggest moderate conditions (Good to Fair), the Clean Coast Index ratings indicate that the beach cleanliness is only moderately maintained, pointing to a need for enhanced waste management and pollution control efforts to improve the environmental health of the area.
Keywords: Water Analysis and Characterization Study (WACS), litter grade, marine litter, size category, Clean Coast Index
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26141
Cite this article:
Boncodin, J., Cedilla, M., Salceda, J. M., Isuga, C., Alcibor, R., Umbao, B. V., Moron, B., & Nolasco, M. (2026). Characterization of marine litters in Caranan, Pasacao, Camarines Sur. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(9), 199-212. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26141
* Corresponding Author