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Characteristics and Potential Source of Marine Debris in an Indonesian Remote Island: A Case Study of Lemukutan Island
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This study investigated marine debris abundance and characteristics on Lemukutan Island, Indonesia, during two monsoon transitional seasons, finding an average of 4.4 items/m² with plastics comprising 84.6% of debris by abundance. Ocean currents transporting debris toward the Pemangkat River estuary were identified as a key distribution mechanism, highlighting the need for improved waste management and public awareness.
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.
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This study used particle tracking simulations and in-situ beach litter surveys to identify sources and stranding locations of marine debris on Selayar Island, Indonesia, finding that the majority of debris originates locally with oceanographic conditions and monsoon seasons strongly influencing distribution patterns. Higher debris quantities were recorded during the northwest monsoon season, and the western coastline near tourism areas was the most affected zone.
Spatial and temporal variation of macro-, meso- and microplastic abundance on a remote coral island of the Maldives, Indian Ocean
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Researchers conducted daily sampling of plastic debris on a remote Maldives island over seven consecutive days and found high spatial and temporal variability in plastic abundance despite the island's remoteness, warning that single-snapshot surveys can produce biased estimates and that future monitoring programs must account for natural fluctuations in deposition.
Effects of seasonal variation on the characteristics of stranded marine debris within Rambut Island Wildlife Reserve, Indonesia
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A survey of marine debris on the beaches and mangroves of Pulau Rambut Wildlife Reserve in Indonesia found that plastic dominated debris loads, with single-use plastics like styrofoam, sachets, and packaging most prevalent. The study provides baseline data showing that even protected wildlife areas accumulate substantial plastic pollution, underscoring the need for upstream plastic reduction to protect sensitive coastal and mangrove ecosystems.
Komposisi dan Kepadatan Sampah Laut (Marine Debris) di Pulau Misool: Studi Kasus Pantai Salafen dan Waigama
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A field survey on Misool Island in the remote Raja Ampat archipelago, Indonesia found 125 marine debris items totaling 1,498 grams across two beaches, with plastics comprising 93% of all debris. Salafen beach showed higher accumulation rates than Waigama beach, and the study establishes baseline data for long-term monitoring of marine debris pathways in this biodiverse marine region.
Accumulation, Composition, Density, and Volume of Marine Litter on Palu Bay
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Researchers surveyed macro-debris accumulation at four coastal sites in Palu Bay, Indonesia, and found that residential and river-influenced sites accumulate heavier waste dominated by household items, while tourism zones generate higher item densities of lightweight single-use plastics — with plastic exceeding 94% of debris at tourism beaches.
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