Analysis of floating debris behaviour in the Nakdong River basin of the southern Korean peninsula using satellite location tracking buoys

Most land-based debris enters the ocean via rivers during the rainy season. The Nakdong River system, the largest river entering the South Sea of Korea, discharges 3000 tons of debris per year. We deployed small tracking buoys with satellite location transmitters to monitor river-borne floating debris movement. The buoys moved for various distances depending on the change in flux in different regions. A hot spot was expected to contain a large accumulation of floating debris. The central and lower parts of the eastern downstream region were identified as important regions. The results of this study provide information related to the movement of debris that can be used when establishing a method for collection of floating debris from rivers and streams. The study contributes to efforts to decrease the amount of floating debris in oceans and the costs associated with debris removal by improving the effectiveness of preventative measures.