The importance of coastal management of garbage and sewage on two tourist islands

Ilha Grande and îIed’Oléron are synonymous of terrestrial and marine natural diversity, with different and relevant areas of environmental protection. Both islands receive many tourists from all over the world. The large influx of people associated with tourism has led to inadequacy of coastal waste management, which has had a negative impact on the environment. Based on this fact, the main objective of this research was to compare and analyze the coastal waste management and sewage systems of Ilha Grande and îIed’Oléron. To reach this goal, we used a qualitative methodology: bibliographic survey and secondary data collected from coastal and waste management systems and from the tourism areas. In addition, the techniques of participative observation and photographic records were performed. As a primary conclusion the majority of inhabitants and tourists on Ilha Grande do not separate waste and one part of the sewage go straight to the sea without a previous treatment. Meanwhile, in Oléron since the 90’ the inhabitants have been sorting their waste. Several pieces of equipment have been created for waste collection, processing and recycling. Both islands have projects and actions to contribute to better coastal management, but Island of Ilha Grande when comparted with îled’Oleron, needs some improvement.