The MSc research project undertaken consists of two complementary sections. The first aims to understand the current state of marine litter-fauna interactions and impacts research with an emphasis on those occurring in submarine canyons. Currently, unstandardised data collection and reporting of such interactions means that global comparison, collaboration, and policy creation is difficult. As such, through a critical literature review, I have recorded litter-fauna interactions and resulting impacts that have been discussed and reported. From the comprehensive dataset compiled, I created 6 main groupings under which all interactions fall. This standardised framework will allow researchers to report interactions observed and compare them with worldwide data to better uncover trends in litter-fauna interactions and inform policy.

The second section of the research project is a case study for the use of the standardised framework. I have annotated litter-fauna interactions occurring within footage of The Canyons Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ), in offshore waters southwest of England. From this analysis, the interactions observed will be analysed, and impacts resulting from interactions will be suggested. The Canyons includes 4 features of conservation importance, only one of which has been assessed for its sensitivity to the pressure of litter. As such, the analysis of litter-fauna interactions and resulting impacts in The Canyons will inform future vulnerability and sensitivity assessments of the MCZ.

Gorgonians are among the most important habitat-forming species of benthic communities in the Mediterranean Sea. Through their three-dimensionality they create underwater forests, so called coral gardens. These coral gardens are comparable to earth forests in terms of complexity, biodiversity, stability and role of providing habitats for other animals. Therefore, their conservation is essential for maintaining the vast biodiversity that they conceal. Increasing understanding and awareness of their ecology and health condition can aid conservation and management issues.

The public should know about the topic of submarine canyon litter-fauna interactions because human use and improper disposal of litter is what causes the issue. While out of sight and mind, submarine canyons accumulate the largest amount of litter of any marine feature globally. Additionally, as submarine canyons connect shallow waters to the deep-sea, slow-growing and fragile species that colonise the deep-sea have the potential to be easily harmed by the impacts of litter. The research undertaken begins to quantify such impacts in order to gain a better understanding of the effects that human actions have on the deep-sea, the world’s largest ecosystem. If the public is made aware of the issue, they may use the impetus to change unsustainable consumption and disposal habits, as well as urge policymakers to create preventative legislation.

The wider impacts of my research are many. There will be a better understanding of the state of the litter-fauna interactions occurring in The Canyons MCZ, which may be used in creation of vulnerability and sensitivity assessments. Additionally, global researchers will be provided with a standardised framework for litter-fauna interactions reporting, which will allow for more streamlined worldwide data comparison. Further, in communication of the results to the public, opinions and habits may change, potentially having an impact on the amount of litter that enters the ocean and interacts with marine fauna.