The Marine Litter Monitoring (MLM)
The project aims to monitor and assess the levels of marine litter in coastal and marine environments in Tanzania. Marine litter, also known as marine debris, refers to any man-made solid material that is discarded or abandoned in the marine and coastal environment. This includes items such as plastic bottles, fishing nets, and other debris that can harm marine life and the environment. It is estimated that more than 8 million tons of plastic waste end up in the ocean every year, posing a significant threat to marine biodiversity and human health.
Intervention Approach
The Marine Litter Monitoring is designed to monitor the amount and composition of marine litter in Tanzania’s coastal and marine environments. Marine litter is a significant problem globally and poses a threat to marine life and the ecosystem. The program aims to collect data on marine litter in Tanzania to better understand the sources and impacts of marine litter, and to develop strategies to mitigate its effects. We use a standardized methodology developed by WIOMSA to ensure that our data is accurate, comparable, and consistent with other data collected in the region.
Through this project, we aim to collect data on the types and quantities of marine litter in Tanzania and provide scientific evidence for policymakers to make informed decisions on waste management policies and strategies. We also work with local communities and stakeholders to raise awareness about the impacts of marine litter and promote sustainable waste management practices. Our program is not only about collecting data but also about creating a culture of environmental responsibility and promoting sustainable behaviour change. Through this project, we hope to raise awareness about the impacts of marine litter on the environment and promote sustainable waste management practices to protect our oceans and coastal areas.
Marine Litter Monitoring (MLM) Aims and Goals
Our goal is to establish the first information database on marine litter in Dar es Salaam that will support government decision-making, industry advocacy, pollution monitoring and draw a connection between industrial production from the producers/manufacturers and waste production. With this database, we envision a better decision-making process connecting all necessary stakeholders to a qualitative solution set and therefore we hope to find a the mutually beneficial solution in which industries produce without harming the environment as an unintended consequence.
We recognize the importance of Tanzanian industries for the country’s economy and therefore we hope to encourage Tanzanian industries to innovate and create delivery
systems that do not harm the environment as an unintended consequence. Single-use items must be replaced with sustainable product delivery systems to ensure that people, profit, and the planet are in balance
Marine Litter Monitoring (MLM) Database Focus
Types of Surveys
Macro and Meso Litter Accumulation Survey and River Survey
Hotspots
Illegal Dumpsites identification/Mapping
Methodology
WIOMSA Datasheets and Waste and Brands of Waste collected