Enhancing Waste Management and Marine Ecosystem Protection for Tourism Sustainability on Buluh Island

Abstract

This study evaluates waste management strategies on Buluh Island to enhance marine ecosystem protection and ensure tourism sustainability. The research highlights a significant relationship between waste accumulation and the degradation of marine ecosystems, which threatens both the environment and the island’s tourism sector. Utilizing qualitative interviews, environmental assessments, and surveys with key stakeholders, the study identifies the pressing challenges of plastic waste and insufficient infrastructure. The findings recommend localized waste management interventions, community-driven initiatives, and circular economy practices that can mitigate environmental impact and support the island’s economic future. These insights provide a model for sustainable tourism in small coastal communities, integrating waste reduction with marine conservation efforts.