Community survey about marine debris and plastic pollution

Toys for Turtles: Reducing marine debris through education and outreach
HREC approval number: H-2024-013
Principal Investigator: Dr Nina Wootton

What is the project about, and who is undertaking the research?
Marine debris is wreaking havoc on environments and wildlife in Northern Australia, including the culturally significant sea turtle. Showcasing the turtle as a species harmed by marine debris, this project combats the plastic problem via a co-designed educational outreach program with Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation. Dhimurru’s land and sea country is negatively impacted by marine debris, hence an education program is pertinent to grow awareness and reduce the impacts of marine debris. The program will have multiple but connected work packages including (i) scientific excursions to survey/remove plastics, (ii) construction of facilities to recycle plastic into reusable items, (iii) ongoing photo point monitoring of sites, and (iv) community survey on marine debris perspectives. The project - ‘Toys for Turtles’, symbolises the multiple benefits of helping the turtles, contributing to cultural adaptive capacity via the marine debris education program, while creating toys for community.
This project is being conducted by Dr Nina Wootton, Professor Melissa Nursey-Bray and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders, who are all researchers at the University of Adelaide. The project is funded through Parks Australia as part of the Ghost Net Innovative Solution Grants.

What are the potential benefits of the research project?
The potential benefits include contribution to the development of new knowledge regarding marine debris management. This knowledge has the potential to influence the future adaption policy and funding programs that may positively reduce marine debris across the region.

Are there any associated risks, and can I withdraw my participation?
The potential burdens are expected to be minimal. Some participants may find that some questions are required opinions, which may cause minor discomfort.
Participation in this project is completely voluntary. If you agree to participate, you can withdraw from the study at any point while completing the survey.

What happens with my information?
We will aim for anonymity when collecting survey results. However, while all efforts will be made to remove any information that might identify you, as the sample size is small, complete anonymity cannot be guaranteed. However, the utmost care will be taken to ensure that no personally identifying details are revealed.

Collected survey data and participant details (including consent forms) will be stored on password-protected digital storage facility accessible to the project team members listed on this application. During data analysis, data will be stored on a University's password-protected University computer where only the researchers involved in the project will have access to data. Consent forms will be stored separately.

The data collected during the survey will be used in journal articles and reports to the funding bodies. Only summary data will be published.

Your information will only be used as described in this participant information sheet and it will only be disclosed according to the consent provided, except as required by law.

Who do I contact if I have questions about the project?
Nina Wootton
Nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au