The movement of marine debris in the ocean relies on hydrodynamic conditions formed by the seabed topography and coastal morphology. Therefore, it is important to understand debris distribution patterns using numerical simulations. Pulo Aceh is situated in the north of Aceh Province, the westernmost province of Indonesia, featuring small islands and marine waters that are connected to the Indian Ocean, Malacca Strait, and the Andaman Sea. The geographical position of this island results in dynamic particle movement. The purpose of this study was to analyze the distribution of marine debris around Pulo Aceh waters through numerical simulation of particle tracking. The basic hydrodynamic model used before running the particle-tracking module was the FM flow model. This model relies on essential input data including bathymetry, tides, and wind information. Four particle release points were established in the Pulo Aceh waters: Krueng Aceh, near Nasi Island, Sabang, and north of Breueh Island. Field observations were also conducted at two locations on Nasi Island, Alue Riyeung and Nipah Beach, to obtain information on the distribution and concentration of the marine debris. The model showed that the water circulation generally moved northward through the waters between Weh Island and Pulo Aceh, resulting in the movement of debris particles towards the Andaman Sea beyond the boundary conditions. However, some particles are also stranded on the beach, potentially contaminating the coastal environment, including Nasi Island. Field validation confirmed that marine debris is dominated by plastics originating from several countries, mostly Indonesia. Notably, the model particle trajectories suggest the potential presence of particles reaching the beach, causing environmental pollution.
Microplastics are plastic fragments measuring < 5 mm, microplastics that enter the water can damage the growth of coral reefs. The aim of this research is to obtain accurate data on the distribution of microplastics, as an initial step in conservation and mitigation of the impact of plastic waste pollution in the Ujong Pancu area. Sediment samples were taken using coring method. Microplastic identification was carried out at the Marine Chemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Syiah Kuala University using a binocular microscope with zig-zag pattern identification. The results of this study are that there are three types of microplastic found in Ujong Pancu waters, namely fiber, film, and fragment types. The average abundance of microplastics in Ujong Pancu Waters ranges from 32–68 particles/kg. The highest average abundance of microplastics is in the northwestern part of Pulau Tuan and the lowest is in Lhok Mata Ie Beach. The highest type of microplastic found was film and the lowest type of microplastic found was fiber. The condition of coral reefs in Ujong Pancu waters is in the moderate category. The relationship between microplastic abundance and the percentage of live coral cover and environmental parameters was 85.01%.
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