Protecting Central Maluku Region’s Biodiversity with Plastic Waste Management

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has designated two Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Central Maluku, namely in the Banda Islands and Lease Islands. These areas are inhabited by endangered dugongs, sea turtles and hammerhead sharks. Changes in consumption have increased plastic waste production, reaching 538 kg/day in Banda and 958 kg/day in Lease. As much as 29% is collected but poorly managed, 35% of the plastic leaks and threatens the sustainability of marine ecosystems. This project aims to reduce plastic leakage to support ecosystem conservation through behaviour change and improved waste management.