The Effects of Marine Debris on Indonesia's Coral Reefs and Mitigation Initiatives

Abstract

Marine debris severely threatens coral reefs in Indonesia. This chapter aims to examine the effects of marine debris on coral reefs in Indonesia and explore the corrective actions implemented to solve this problem. This chapter relies on secondary data from scientific literature, government records, and environmental organisations. Land and sea waste damage Indonesian coral reefs, causing physical, chemical, and biological harm. Indonesia has worked with the government, environmental organisations, and local communities to mitigate this. These initiatives consist of beach and water cleanups, public awareness, and education through a variety of educational campaigns, the development of waste management technology, and the establishment of environmental policies and regulations regarding waste management. For Indonesian coral reef conservation to succeed, cross-sector collaboration and community participation are essential. Despite significant mitigation efforts, challenges remain that require a greater commitment to protecting coral reefs and reducing the damaging impacts of marine debris.