The results of recent research will help develop measures to reduce pollution at one of Russia's main resorts. The study analyzed six beach zones: "Velvet Seasons," "Sirius," "Izvestiya," "Hosta," "Matsesta," and "Primorsky."
On the beaches of Sochi, researchers found between 40 and 245 pieces of litter per 100 meters, which is significantly lower compared to some "hot spots" along the Black Sea coast, where figures can reach up to a thousand pieces. The highest amounts of trash were found on beaches lacking regular cleaning and in areas where rivers flow into the sea. The cleanest beaches were identified as "Sirius," "Matsesta," and "Izvestiya," each with 30 pieces of litter per 100 meters. Notably, "Izvestiya" had the lowest count at just 26 pieces.
In contrast, the most polluted beaches in Sochi were "Primorsky" and "Hosta," with 116 and 203 pieces of litter respectively. The predominant types of trash included cigarette butts, cigarette packs, and plastic.
During the study, scientists also examined seawater and the state of zooplankton as a method of bioindication. An invasive species, the Far Eastern rapana, was found in the Black Sea, which is believed to have entered the region via ballast water from ships or by attaching to their hulls. This predatory mollusk reproduces rapidly in the Black Sea, where it faces no natural enemies, potentially disrupting the marine ecosystem.
Participants discussed the boundary between nature and ecotourism, whether mass visits to unique areas can remain safe, the responsibilities of investors, and how to prepare tourists for visiting specially protected natural areas.
The head of state expressed confidence that the Forum will be held at a high level, and that its results will contribute to the development of tourism in Russia and the expansion of humanitarian and business ties.
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