Identification of Marine Debris Types in The Coastal Area of Palopo City

Abstract

This study aims to identify the variation of marine debris along the coast of Palopo City, South Sulawesi, and to evaluate the types and levels of accumulation at three research sites: Takalalla, Benteng, and Salekoe. The research applied a quantitative descriptive method with sampling conducted using a 100-meter transect divided into 5 × 5 meter plots. The collected debris was classified by material type (plastic, rubber, metal, glass, fabric, wood, and others), followed by calculations of quantity, weight, and percentage. The findings revealed that plastic debris was the most dominant, both in terms of number and distribution. The highest accumulation was recorded in Takalalla Village (48%), followed by Benteng Village (27%), and the lowest in Salekoe Village (25%). Meanwhile, glass and natural wood contributed significantly to the total weight. These results confirm that domestic activities, tourism, and fisheries are the main sources of marine debris in the coastal area of Palopo City. This research is expected to serve as a basis for more sustainable coastal environmental management.