Exploring Plastic Waste Sources in Fishing Ports: Strategies for Mitigation and Economic Opportunitiesust Try to Submit This Sample Abstract
Tri Yuwono1*, Mutiara Rachmat Putri2, Susanna Nurdjaman2, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono1, Wahyu Indra Sakti1, David G. Ketaren1, Supo Dwi Diantara1, Syamdidi1, Freshty Yulia Arthatiani1, and Kamaluddin Kasim1ust Try to Submit This Sample Abstract

1Doctor in. Earth Sciences, Faculty of Earth Sciences and Technology, Bandung Insititute of Technology, Jalan Ganesha 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
2Environmental and Applied Oceanography Research Group, Faculty of Earth Sciences and Technology, Bandung Insititute of Technology, Jalan Ganesha 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
*Corresponding author

Abstract

Plastic waste is an escalating environmental challenge, particularly at fishing ports where its impact often goes unnoticed. While fishing activities are known contributors to this problem, the specific effects at these ports remain unclear. This study aims to quantify the potential amount of plastic debris generated, understand the sources of this waste, explore mitigation strategies, and identify opportunities for economic reuse at three major fishing ports: Nizam Zachman in Jakarta, Kejawanan in Cirebon, and Cilacap in Central Java. We gathered insights through field surveys, structured questionnaires, and focus group discussions (FGDs). The findings reveal that Nizam Zachman Fishing Port generates a significant amount of plastic waste, ranging from 71 to 498 tons per month, while Cilacap Fishing Port produces considerably less, averaging 115 to 189 kilograms monthly. Approximately 51% of the waste at these ports is plastic, originating from activities like fish unloading, office operations, and post-unloading tasks such as net and boat repairs, as well as food waste from the crew. The remaining 49% is organic waste. Interviews highlighted the shortcomings of the ISO 14001 environmental management system and the Ministry^s action plan for reducing plastic waste at these ports. These findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced environmental practices to prevent plastic waste from entering the ocean. However, the collected plastic waste holds untapped economic potential. By improving waste management and recycling efforts, this waste can be transformed into valuable products, contributing to a circular economy. For example, Kejawanan Fishing Port has partnered with a women^s empowerment group to create handmade bags from recycled plastic. This study offers vital insights into the plastic waste problem at fishing ports and suggests actionable strategies for its reduction and economic reuse.

Keywords: sources, potential, plastic waste, fishing ports, mitigation, circular economy

Topic: Ocean Sciences