Marine plastic debris in the Arabian/Persian Gulf: Challenges, opportunities and recommendations from a transdisciplinary perspective

Abstract

In recent years, the amount of plastic waste entering the marine environment around the world has gained increasing attention. Yet certain areas and regions remain relatively undocumented. Research findings on this topic within the countries adjacent to the Arabian/Persian Gulf comprised of Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates is relatively sparse. Significant gaps remain regarding the precise details on the quantity, sources and impacts of plastic marine debris as well as appropriate management responses. This article addresses these shortcomings from a transdisciplinary perspective, drawing on science, engineering and law. Based on an analysis and overview of the scientific research on plastic pollution in the region, an estimate of mismanaged waste is developed, both on a national level as well as for selected coastal cities. The article then explores the applicable international and regional regulatory framework to address marine debris in the Arabian/Persian Gulf region. It provides one of the first accounts of this regional sea from a comprehensive marine litter regulatory perspective, incorporating scientific findings as well as modelling techniques. The article suggests possible ways to achieve synergies and cooperation among actors and proposes novel approaches on methods to address the problem with a view to the transboundary nature of the issue. The key to success lies in dedicated cooperative efforts within the region, both between the public and private sector and between government and civil society.