Current Source and Distribution Pattern of Plastic Waste Leakage in the Estuary of Jakarta Bay

Abstract

The accumulation of plastics in marine environment has increased the global risk of water pollution. Its uncontrolled production and existing management capacity have brought a burden on current plastic waste management, especially in Jakarta Bay. It has a negative impact on land, ecosystems, and especially the food chain and marine organisms. Their improper management has reduced the quality of environment, human health, and influenced economic sectors. Economic activities which involve coastal areas have consistently become a major source of plastic waste leakage either directly or indirectly. This study aims to analyze current source and its distribution patterns of plastic waste leakage in estuaries of Jakarta Bay using in-depth interviews and field observations. The results show the estuaries at the eastern part of Jakarta Bay is the highest potential for plastic waste leakage, followed by the western part, and the middle part is the least contributing plastic waste of leakage. The various sources of leakage in the estuaries are identified, including the behavior of the community that is vulnerable to exacerbates the existence of leakage. Handling capacities are limited including facilities, and the intensity of collection in the wide coverage of the operating area made the challenges to the responsible authorities.