Marine debris monitoring in the coastal area of the District of Banyuwangi, Indonesia: Characterization of the debris type and composition

Abstract

This study was aimed to monitor and collect the data on marine debris in the coastal area of the District of Banyuwangi, Indonesia. The survey was conducted in two periods, i.e., July and October of 2020 in Cemara Beach and Syariah Beach. The coastal marine debris sampling was done in accordance with the guideline published by Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry. In terms of number of debris/m2, the result shows that plastic was the dominant coastal marine debris. The density of macro plastic and meso plastic debris in July 2020 are 1.96 – 5.44 debris/m2 and 0.28 – 0.80 debris/m2, respectively; while in October 2020, the density of macro plastic and meso plastic debris are 1.24 – 3.24 debris/m2 and 0.56 – 2.24 number of debris/m2, respectively. The information on the characteristics of marine debris could assist the authority in formulating the proper strategy to overcome the problem as well as support the government in planning a good sustainable coastal management.