Debris Issues Research Articles

An Assessment of 1067 Light Curing Units Measured Twice Between 2015 and 2021.

The physical condition of the tip and the irradiance of LCUs used in dental offices in the United States and Canada was assessed twice. The tip irradiance and physical condition of the tip of 1067 LCUs from 544 dental clinics were assessed twice between 2015 and 2021 using the CheckMARC (BlueLight) radiometer. The irradiance values were compared by paired Student's t-test (α = 0.05). There was a wide range of irradiance values (200 to 3,777 mW/cm²). At the first assessment, only 26% of the LCUs had no visible damage or debris on the LCU tip. When retested up to 36 months later, 70% of the LCUs had their tip damage or debris issues entirely or partially resolved. 2.6% of the LCUs delivered an irradiance below 500 mW/cm² on the first and 1.6% on the second assessments. For the 5 brands that had a sufficient sample size, it was concluded that the irradiance increased when the tip damage or presence of tip debris was resolved. Initially, most LCUs (74%) had at least one problem related to damage or debris on the LCU tip. The irradiance increased when the tip damage or debris was resolved.

Enhancing tribological performance of high‐density polyethylene polymer with diamond‐like carbon coating and mollusk shells filler

AbstractThis study explores the tribological properties of mollusk‐shell‐high‐density polyethylene (MS‐HDPE) biocomposites and diamond‐like carbon (DLC)‐coated metal beads as potential substitutes for hip joint prostheses. HDPE biocomposites with 0, 5, and 10 wt% of MS were developed using hot compression molding. Coatings included pure DLC, DLC‐Si, and DLC W:H. Wear tests on a ball‐on‐disk tribometer examined friction and wear rates against coated and uncoated balls, along with wear morphology. MS‐HDPE demonstrated superior tribological performance against DLC, achieving a 67% reduction in specific wear rate compared to pure HDPE. The study suggests that 5 wt% MS‐HDPE coupled with a DLC‐coated counterpart coating could be a promising combination for orthopedic applications, presenting a potential solution to metal corrosion and wear debris issues in orthopedic implants.Highlights Tested coatings: DLC, DLC‐Si, and DLC W:H. Biocomposite wear versus coated balls. DLC coating improves wear with shell fillers. Mollusk shell strengthens biocomposites. Reduced wear rate by 63% and friction by 77%.

Marine debris characteristics in various coastal typologies in the Gunungkidul coastal area of Yogyakarta—Indonesia

Marine debris is one of the environmental issues that can be brought on by rapid human development and activity, including marine tourism, like what happened in the coastal area of Gunungkidul, Indonesia. The issue of marine debris might decrease the environmental quality and impact tourism in Gunungkidul. This study aims to identify the characteristics of coastal typologies in Gunungkidul and analyze their influence on the characteristics of marine debris. Google Earth images and the Digital Elevation Model were used to interpret and classify the typology across the study area based on their physical characteristics. Marine debris samples, either macro or meso-sized, were collected using the transect method for each beach. Based on the imagery interpretation combined with elevation data from DEMNAS, there are three typologies in the Gunungkidul coastal area, i.e., pocket, non-pocket, and cliff beaches. Cliff typology was eliminated and only pocket and non-pocket beaches were used as marine debris sample collection locations. Hence, four beaches were chosen as study areas, i.e., Seruni, Drini, Sepanjang, and Sedahan; each represents each coastal typology. About 193 macro-sized and 217 meso-sized debris were found in our research area, totaling 1380.31 g. Compared to non-pocket beaches, pocket beaches contain more marine debris. The higher slopes of the pocket beach typology will trap marine debris and make it challenging to reenter the water. On pocket beaches, oceanographic processes concentrate marine debris in one location. Still, on non-pocket beaches, marine debris can disperse and return to the sea more readily due to the cycling of currents near the coast.

Design and Fabrication of Ocean Plastic Waste Cleaner

An ocean cleaning device abstract could focus on various aspects, depending on the specific device or technology being described. With the escalating threat of ocean pollution, innovative solutions are imperative to mitigate its detrimental impacts on marine ecosystems and human livelihoods. This abstract presents a comprehensive overview of an advanced ocean cleaning device designed to tackle the burgeoning issue of marine debris. The device integrates cutting-edge technology, including [insert specific technologies], to efficiently remove various forms of pollution from coastal areas and open water on the severity of ocean pollution and the urgent need for effective cleanup technologies. It highlights the detrimental effects of marine debris on marine life, biodiversity, and coastal communities, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions. Here's a general abstract outline for an ocean cleaning device.This paper discusses the design principles, technological components, and operational strategies of the ocean plastic waste cleaning device. Additionally, it evaluates the device's performance through simulation models and field tests, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing plastic pollution and contributing to sustainable ocean conservation efforts.Integrated sensors monitor water quality, temperature, and marine life, providing valuable data for environmental research and conservation efforts.Operators can remotely control the device and receive real-time data, enhancing operational efficiency and response times

Impact of marine debris on coral reef ecosystem of Palk Bay, Indian Ocean

Abstract Coral reef ecosystems are highly sensitive to pollution from marine debris, especially if the regions are noted for tourism and fishing. Palk Bay on the south east coast of India is a famous tourist and fishing region, where the marine debris accumulation poses a great threat to the coastal ecosystem. In this study during 2018–2020, the marine debris distribution and their interactions with coral reefs of Palk Bay were monitored from five stations. Derelict fishing gears (DFGs), including ropes (51 ± 2%) and fishing lines (43 ± 2.5%), were the dominant debris forms recorded. Among the reef‐forming corals, Acropora sp. colonies experienced maximum physical injury and mortality from DFG entanglement. Plastic materials and anchors caused considerable physical damage and tissue loss in Porites sp, without any mortality. Manual debris removal as a potential debris management method was assessed by regularly removing the accumulated debris from the test reef locations of all five stations, whereas the control reef locations were left undisturbed. Test reef locations showed a significant increase in live coral cover and coral recruit density in 2020, against that in 2018, compared with the control locations. Continuous accumulation and interaction of marine debris with the coral colonies of control reef locations resulted in significant reduction of live coral cover and coral recruit density at the control reef locations. This study illustrates the impact of unsustainable fishing and other anthropogenic activities such as tourism and waste disposal on coral reef ecosystems like Palk Bay. The findings of this study demonstrates that manual removal of debris is an important strategy for marine debris management in coral reef ecosystem. Considering the importance of coral reefs in the livelihood of the coastal communities, it is important to tackle the marine debris issue through regular debris removal with stakeholder participation, awareness campaigns and strict legal and management measures.

Mechanisms for Addressing Space Debris from the Perspective of International Law

This paper explores the various mechanisms available for addressing the issue of space debris through the lens of international law. As human activities in space continue to increase, so does the accumulation of space debris, posing significant risks to satellites, spacecraft, and overall space operations. International law plays a crucial role in governing space activities and managing the growing problem of space debris. This paper examines the legal frameworks and mechanisms established at the international level to mitigate, prevent, and manage space debris. It analyzes treaties, agreements, guidelines, and principles relevant to space debris mitigation and explores the roles of different actors, including space agencies, governments, and international organizations, in implementing these mechanisms. The paper also discusses challenges and gaps in current legal frameworks and suggests potential avenues for enhancing international cooperation and coordination in addressing the issue of space debris. Through this examination, the paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the intersection between international law and space debris management and to inform future policy and decision-making in this critical area.

Marine pollution management in response to plastic waste under international law and national law – challenges and implications for developing countries: a case study of Vietnam

One of the most widespread environmental problems confronting the global community is marine pollution, particularly the adverse impact of plastic debris. This issue not only has detrimental effects on ecosystems, environmental quality, human health, and habitats of people and species worldwide, but also represents a formidable barrier to the protection of the marine environment and the pursuit of sustainable ocean development. Vietnam, as a Southeast Asian country with a long coastline, faces the issue of significant plastic debris in its waters. Despite significant efforts being made by the Vietnamese Government in developing a legislative framework as a comprehensive approach to ‘white pollution’ in accordance with international environmental standards and its international and regional undertakings on environmentalism, challenges persist in the establishment of effective management of marine environmental pollution. As a developing country grappling with certain challenges in resource allocation for socio-economic development, Vietnam, like other developing countries in the region, face substantial difficulties and hurdles in managing marine plastic pollution. This article first presents the current situation in respect of plastic pollution, with a focus on marine plastic pollution stemming from land-based plastic waste, in Vietnam. The article then concentrates on the regulatory response at both international and national levels to determine whether the international and national instruments comprehensively address the plastic waste issue. The article also explores and critiques the weaknesses and difficulties in effectively managing and controlling the current harm and threat of plastic pollution. Thereafter, the article proposes some recommendations and solutions for the Vietnamese Government to move toward more effective plastic pollution management.

Indonesia's Policy in Addressing Marine Debris

Marine debris is a serious global environmental problem that affects the sustainability of marine ecosystems and human health. This research aims to analyze the threats posed by marine debris, such as its impact on marine life, ecosystems, and economies, as well as discuss Indonesia's policies in addressing the issue. The study aims to analyze the threats of marine debris to marine life, ecosystems, and economies, and identify the main sources of plastic waste in the ocean. This research utilizes secondary data analysis and literature review as research methods. The results show that marine debris has significant impacts on marine organisms and economic sectors. Indonesia's policies include improved waste management and increased public awareness. This research provides insights and recommendations for maintaining the sustainability of Indonesia's marine environment. In conclusion, this research highlights the importance of comprehensive policies and coordinated actions in addressing the issue of marine debris. Prevention efforts, proper waste management, and public awareness of the importance of maintaining the cleanliness of the ocean are key factors in reducing the negative impacts of marine debris. This research is expected to provide insights and recommendations for the government and other stakeholders in their efforts to preserve the sustainability of Indonesia's marine environment.

Coastal clean-up in Southeast Asia: lessons learned, challenges, and future strategies

The significant accumulation of marine debris on beaches poses a challenge and raises serious concerns to the global environmental sustainability. It has been previously reported that Southeast Asian (SEA) is one of the global hotspots of marine debris contributor to almost 30% of marine debris pollution to the world oceans. This review discusses the challenge and provide the information of mitigation efforts associated with beach clean-up initiatives to combat the marine debris in Southeast Asia. We employ the comprehensive of qualitative data analysis from relevant literature reviews and conducting a structured study specific to the region, therefore, this research highlights the prevalence and characteristics of marine debris that addressed Coastal Cleanup Activities (CCA) in Southeast Asian. Plastic debris remains type of marine debris commonly found across the beaches. Furthermore, Coastal Clean Up (CCU) activities involving local communities have progressively gained prominence in addressing marine debris issues by utilizing educational outreach to raise awareness effectively. Participants in these initiatives include students, tourists, and high school students. The crucial gap of Coastal CCA required the consistent application of scientific methods during beach clean-ups in Southeast Asian. The importance of community involvement, the adoption of scientific methodology, regular clean-up initiatives, and the potential of marine citizen science formulation could potentially contribute in facilitating an effective approach of marine debris management and education in Southeast Asia. Given the substantial component of initiatives, the result of this study proposes the focus on marine citizen science emerges in the future as a potential avenue for educating and engaging the public awareness towards understanding and tackling marine debris accumulation in Southeast Asian beaches.

Utilization of Plastic Waste in Road Paver Blocks as a Construction Material

India is confronted with the substantial issue of plastic debris due to the absence of an efficient waste management infrastructure. Recycled plastic has the potential to enhance various construction materials, such as roofing tiles, paving blocks, and insulation. The aforementioned materials possess notable attributes such as high strength, low weight, and exceptional resistance to extreme temperatures and humidity. The objective of this study is to ascertain feasible alternatives for manufacturing road paver blocks utilizing plastic waste (Polyethene terephthalate (PET)), and M-sand (stone dust). Three variations of a discarded plastic cube measuring 150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm were prepared for the experiment. The experimental findings indicated that a ratio of 1:4 was determined to be the most effective in achieving the desired level of compressive strength. I-section road and brick paver blocks were produced as an alternative to the traditional concrete ones. Compressive strength tests were performed on I-sections and brick paver blocks, revealing that the 1:4 mix ratio exhibited the highest average compressive strength for both materials. The findings indicated that including plastic waste positively impacted the compressive strength of the I-sections and brick paver blocks. Additionally, the quality grading of these materials was evaluated using an ultrasonic pulse velocity test. The ultrasonic pulse velocity test results demonstrated a high-quality grading for the I-sections and brick paver blocks. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests assessed the microstructural behavior and performance. The results of this study demonstrate that incorporating plastic waste in combination with M-sand can effectively improve the mechanical characteristics of composite materials, rendering them viable for use in construction-related purposes.

SUSTAINABILITY OF SPACE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT – ADDRESSING THE ISSUE OF ORBITAL DEBRIS IN THE CONTEXT OF SPACE LIABILITY

The problem of managing space debris is not only an international challenge but also an opportunity to preserve this environment for future space exploration missions. As more countries gain the technology and economic means to launch spacecraft, more focus is being exerted on standardizing the procedures of each country and on adhering to new developing norms under international agreements. Over time, the increasing number of launching states proves that space debris mitigation will have to be coordinated and that preventive measures across all stakeholders – both state and non-state actors – will have to be put in place since if one actor fails to do so, this may inevitably affect all others. The article focuses on the analysis of international space law and policy steps undertaken to tackle environmental pollution in outer space, in particular in terms of accumulation of human-made debris and waste material in the Earth’s orbit and beyond. The aim of the work is to analyse to what extent the international legal framework and policy measures are failing in addressing the emerging issue of debris in outer space and to propose policy recommendations in creating a new specialized international organization along with de lege ferenda conclusions for international space law, especially in the context of possible amendments to the Liability Convention and the Outer Space Treaty.

Fate of ejected debris from the explosion of the rear surface of fused silica in the high-power laser facility

This study focuses on the issue of uncontrollable debris generated by laser-matter interactions in high-power laser facilities, which significantly impairs operational efficiency. The maximum motion distance of debris, referred to as the safety distance, is a crucial parameter that this work investigates. Three prediction methods that utilize aerodynamic coefficients and trajectories are proposed, with input parameters derived from velocity curves extracted from high-resolution time-resolved images. The results obtained from these methods show good agreement with experimental data collected under laser fluence conditions ranging from 18 to 79 J/cm2 that damage the rear surface of fused silica. The analytically predicted safety distance, with an input velocity fitted at 0 ns and an upper diameter limit of 10 µm, was closest to the experimental result at 155 mm. Analytically predicted values with input velocities fitted at 13,000 ns and all diameter ranges did not exceed 192.3 mm. Numerically predicted values, with input velocity fitted at 13,000 ns and a median diameter of small debris (5 µm), were 140.4 and 295.2 mm for aspect ratios of 2 and 4, respectively. The numerical method is recommended for predicting the safety distance in high-power laser facilities, but obtaining accurate estimates of transient velocity is crucial for the method’s effectiveness.

Effectiveness of hierarchical Bayesian models for citizen science data with missing values: A case study on the factors influencing beach litter in Shimane Prefecture, Japan

Citizen science can play an important role in addressing the issue of marine debris. However, citizen science data are often composed of inconsistent methods compared to data collected by experts. In this study, we applied beach cleanup data, collected in different survey years at different survey sites, to a hierarchical Bayesian model to elucidate the factors affecting the distribution of beach litter. The results showed the model accounting for differences between years had a smaller Watanabe-Akaike Information criterion than the model that did not account for it, indicating better accuracy of the model. The amount of beach litter was influenced by current velocity and bay openness, and these effects varied across years. The results indicate that citizen science data, which may contain missing values due to various constraints such as economic and human resources, can make an important contribution toward solving marine debris issues by flexible statistical analysis methods.

Telecommunications and Space Debris: Adaptive Regulation Beyond Earth

The existing policy frameworks surrounding the launch of man-made objects and expeditions into space are largely unequipped to deal with the long-term consequences of debris accumulation beyond the Earth's atmosphere. This has serious implications for all telecommunications satellites. As space-faring actors (who are increasingly from the private sector, in addition to government-affiliated) become more involved with these activities, fragmentation from a variety of sources (colloquially grouped as space debris) will only continue to proliferate before outright impeding the ability of humans to conduct operations in space altogether. This paper proposes, as a solution, the implementation of adaptive governance structures with regards to the issue of space debris. This solution takes place in the form of collaborative/flexible endeavors between the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), private sector spaceflight corporations, and governmental space agencies to mitigate space debris pileup. Through the usage of new technologies to spearhead space debris cleanup, non-partisan economic incentives, and clarification on acceptable environmental conditions for satellite launches, an adaptive governance model for handling space debris is key to making space safe for communication and research.

A re-examination of the space debris problem using systems thinking

Artificial satellites have enormous advantages, resulting in a massive increase in launches. As of January 2022, approximately 4852 operational satellites were orbiting Earth, assisting humans in communication, technology development, space observation, and earth science. Among the cataloged objects in space, only 20% are operational satellites, with the rest being debris. This debris poses a danger to active satellites and limits the orbital space for new satellite launches. These non-functional, fast-moving debris pieces may trigger collisions and potentially create new fragments of space junk. Most countries striving to exploit outer space have neglected the long-term consequences as explained by the tragedy of the Commons archetype. This study examines how the space race led to the specific issue of orbital debris using a systems thinking approach. Using counter-intuitiveness, causal loop diagrams (CLD), systemigrams, and archetypes as systems thinking methods and concepts to explain the space debris challenge. The systems thinking tools used in this study attempt to highlight the current space debris problem and the lack of a clear policy framework to mitigate the severity of the problem. Even though many private organizations and some space agencies are conceptualizing ideas to remove debris from space, the major issues in resolving this problem are time, cost, and uncertainty. Our findings highlight the importance of addressing the issue at the technological, system engineering, and policy levels.

Including local voices in marine debris conversations to advance environmental justice for island and coastal communities: perspectives from St. Paul Island, Alaska

Marine debris is ubiquitous across the global ocean and is an increasing threat to human health, economies, habitats, and wildlife. While local to national action plans are important in addressing this issue, they do not necessarily reflect the needs of coastal communities most heavily impacted. Remote island and coastal communities, particularly in Alaska, do not generate the majority of marine debris impacting their ecosystems; however, they are often left with the task of removal and disposal. Thus, the detrimental effects of marine debris are not only an ecological problem but an issue of environmental justice. This project aimed to catalyze the inclusion of place-based knowledge in marine debris solutions for St. Paul Island, a predominantly (>85%) Alaska Native community in the Bering Sea. We interviewed 36 community members during 2017–2020, documenting their observations of marine debris types, amount, distribution, and impacts over recent decades. Participants reported increasing plastic debris since the 1980s, particularly plastic bottles and fishing gear. Nearly 80% expressed concern about impacts to subsistence resources, including entanglement and ingestion. St. Paul Island community members’ experiences highlight that solving marine debris issues requires broader policies and mitigation strategies addressing sources of debris and advancing environmental justice by impact reduction. Furthermore, this case study can serve as an example of how locally relevant action plans can be developed in other coastal communities around the world by including knowledge and concerns of community members, as they are the most heavily and personally impacted by the marine debris on their shorelines.

Developing a Visual Counting Method to Quantify Riverine Plastic Litter: A Case Study of Rivers in Semarang City, Indonesia

Indonesia has established a national action plan on marine plastic debris to tackle the issue of marine plastic debris. Because most of the marine plastic debris in Indonesia is likely due to mismanaged plastic waste, it is important to address the problem of riverine plastic river problem in Indonesia. The objectives of this study are to visually observe the condition of the river in terms of plastic pollution, to quantify plastic litter in the river, and to develop a visual counting model of plastic litter quantification. The visual counting of plastic debris (> 2.5 cm) method based on the European standard method was applied to a river in Indonesia. The main challenge was the high turbidity of the water that obstructed visual observation. The deployment of the fishing net was also not appropriate to collect debris. Most of the plastic debris was stranded on the riverbanks, indicating that the plastic flow was likely elevated due to runoff during the rainy season. Four types of plastic litter polymers were obtained, i.e., polyethylene terephthalate (PET), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). The highest percentage of macroplastics is LDPE, which usually used as daily packaging (90%).

Distribution and Abundance of Marine Debris on Intertidal Zone at Three Selected Small Islands, Sabah

The issue of marine debris has become worldwide attention since it occurs almost everywhere globally Thus, it is crucial to focus on this area to sustain the life below the water as stated by United Nations (SDG 14). This study evaluated the distribution, abundance, and composition of marine debris in three selected islands at Sabah namely Manukan, Mamutik and Sapi Islands. Marine debris was identified according to its categories as stated by the Department of Environment (DOE). The study was carried out to compare the waste abundance of three islands since the different beach types represent various activities that produce debris. The sampling design was conducted with two plot areas plotted and observed on each island for three consecutive weeks. Based on the assessment done, Mamutik Island recorded the most abundance of marine debris with 12.185 kg (66.2%) of debris found followed by Manukan Island with 5.487 kg (29.8%) of debris and Sapi Island with 0.746 kg (4.1%). It was observed that plastic debris especially plastic bags, plastic bottles, plastic straws, general plastics, polystyrene, and plastic cups were the main contributors to marine debris pollution. While among all the three islands studied, Sapi Island is considered the cleanest and smallest Island compared to others since the location of this island is quite far from the mainland. The solid and waste management on each island has been identified in order to formulate a new strategy to reduce the impact of marine debris on the intertidal zone especially on human health and the environment. These studies have provided a clear understanding of the distribution of marine debris in these islands. Several recommendations and suggestions have been listed to reduce and prevent marine debris pollution.

Temporal trends and spatial distribution of research topics in anthropogenic marine debris study: Topic modelling using latent Dirichlet allocation

The release of anthropogenic marine debris (AMD) is one of the major environmental challenges of our time. In this study, a topic model called latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) was used to infer the research topics about AMD to provide the whole picture of the research area. The results of the LDA showed that the AMD research topics are mostly applied topics and belong to interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary research areas. Furthermore, the analysis of the temporal trends of the topics showed that topics related to such as plastic pollution exhibit an upward trend, whereas those dealing with the spatiotemporal dynamics and distribution patterns of marine debris showed a downward trend. The analysis of topic distribution over countries showed that research is scarce in landlocked countries. The findings of this study can be used as a map for the area of AMD study by various stakeholders related to marine debris issues.

Pathways for Sustainable Waste Management for Renewables

Waste management has been significantly difficult to address. In recent years, the national and local waste management law in Indonesia were stipulated not only to reduce volume of waste, but also to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and open pathways for renewable energy production. Addressing waste problems in Indonesia would also mean solving the pervasive marine debris issues, which is highly critical to do as the home to various marine biodiversity. However, the current state of Indonesia’s waste management law and regulations had not yet reached its best condition. Turning to Hawaii, a federal state in the United States that has similar geographical characteristics as Indonesia, the much smaller island yet densely populated also had been dealing with its own waste problems in a different take. The active participation of community and establishing ambitious goal of zero waste in Hawaii contrasted the more rigid, top-down approach that Indonesia implemented coupled with a lax enforcement. This paper would cover the regulatory framework of both states in regard to its respective waste management methods that may be of lessons learned to further the achievement of zero waste state.