Marine litter, especially plastic waste, poses a serious threat to marine biodiversity, seabird populations, and coastal communities. The LIFE SeaBiL project aimed to reduce the impact of marine litter on seabirds through targeted actions in five pilot sites across Spain, France, and Portugal. To explore how such efforts might influence society and ecosystem services, we carried out an
evaluation focused on the project’s potential socio-economic and ecological effects.
We analysed the potential effects on ecosystem services by conducting a targeted literature review on the known impacts of marine litter and litter removal, and by gathering insights from project partnersmthrough structured surveys and interviews. This allowed us to explore how project actions (such as beach cleanups, stranded seabird monitoring, and awareness campaigns) might influence services like habitat regulation, cultural value, and environmental education.
To assess the socio-economic effects, we developed three tailored surveys targeting key stakeholder groups: project partners (e.g. wildlife centres, cleanup associations), volunteers, and the general public. These surveys gathered information on perceived impacts on operational practices, public awareness, attitude and knowledge. Additionally, we conducted semi-structured interviews with selected stakeholders in all three countries to gain deeper qualitative insights into project benefits, experiences, and changes in knowledge or attitudes. This mixed-method approach provided a structured basis for examining the possible societal and ecological value created by the LIFE SeaBiL project.
