Plastic Pollutants Effects Assessment of the Dar es Salaam Port Ecosystem

This study examined the global issue of plastic pollution, focusing on the effects of plastic pollutants on the port ecosystem and the threat faced in managing this problem. Despite the introduction of many regulations and conventions such as MARPOL Annex V and the EU Directive 2019/883 for controlling of maritime ecosystem pollution, plastic pollution remains a significant issue of concern. Approximately 12.7 million tons of plastic believed to be dumped into the ocean annually, this affect the ocean ecosystem and human well-being. This study highlighted immediate actions to be taken in managing the port ecosystem and explores the involvement of stakeholders in a strategy to improve waste management. This study deployed mixed-methods techniques, incorporating field sampling, laboratory analyses, and policy reviews to investigate the types, concentrations, sources, and ecological impacts of pollutants at the port. The finding revealed the presence of plastics average concentration of 10 particles/L around the Dar es Salaam port ecosystem which pose a significant threat to the delicate ecological balance and the well-being of surrounding communities. The elevated levels of plastics pollutant, exceeding recommended environmental guidelines, were observed in specific hotspots near industrial outfalls, shipyards, and areas receiving urban runoff, the situation raising the concerns about potential risks to the food web and human health through seafood consumption. These finding underscore the urgent need for planned actions to mitigate pollution threats and promote a sustainable port ecosystem and environment. The study recommends immediate interventions, such as prioritizing pollution control at hotspots, strengthening monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, and raising public awareness. Long-term strategies include incorporating environmental considerations into port development plans, adopting ecosystem-based management approaches, and fostering stakeholders and regional cooperation on the seaport pollution control.