The Indonesian acting deputy secretary for maritime human resources coordination at the Coordinating Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Investment, has emphasized the importance of setting a higher target to protect the underwater ecosystem from the growing threat of plastic waste pollution, the Investor Magazine reported.
According to data from the coordinating ministry, approximately 12.87 million tonnes of plastic waste were found scattered in Indonesian seas in 2023, the report said, adding that in response to this alarming situation, the Indonesian government has introduced a series of policies, including the “Indonesia Mission 2024,” aimed at addressing the issue of plastic waste pollution.
Collaborating with the global ocean exploration non-profit organization OceanX, researchers from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) conducted research in Indonesia and discovered plastic waste at certain depths, although not as extensively as in other countries.
The findings of this research on microplastics are considered crucial for informing government actions and raising awareness among the wider community about the importance of protecting oceans from waste pollution.
According to specialists, microplastics can contaminate the sea and its associated ecosystems. The potential risks posed by microplastics, especially if consumed by fish and subsequently by the public, could have serious implications for public health.
