Characteristics and Potential Source of Marine Debris in an Indonesian Remote Island: A Case Study of Lemukutan Island

Journal Archive

	Characteristics and Potential Source of Marine Debris in an Indonesian Remote Island: A Case Study of Lemukutan Island
Article 191, Volume 29, Issue 4, July and August 2025, Page 2487-2512 PDF (906.02 K)
DOI: 10.21608/ejabf.2025.448428
View on SCiNiTO
Author
Gunawan et al.
Abstract
The accumulation of marine debris on Lemukutan Island poses a significant threat to the island’s aquatic environment and sustainable tourism. This study investigates the abundance and spatiotemporal characteristics of marine debris along the island’s coastline and evaluates the dominant sources contributing to its presence. Sampling was conducted twice, in May and November, representing the first and second monsoon breaks, using methods adapted from the NOAA Marine Debris Program. Results revealed an average abundance of 4.4 ± 0.08 items/m² and an average weight of 22.3 ± 0.46 g/m², with plastics accounting for 84.6% of the debris by abundance and 51.7% by weight. The most common items included plastic wrappers, fragments, cups, and bottles. Coastal cleanliness was rated as moderate during both transitional seasons. The findings highlight the influence of ocean currents in transporting debris toward the Pemangkat River estuary and emphasize the urgent need for improved waste management and enhanced public awareness initiatives to address plastic pollution.
Keywords
Marine debris; Plastic pollution; Numerical modeling; Lemukutan Island


Statistics Article View: 59 PDF Download: 34