The Association of Nature Lovers of Universitas Brawijaya (IMPALA UB) revealed the results of a social analysis related to the condition of waste management in Kondang Merak Beach area. Based on observations and interviews conducted, it was found that although the management has provided trash bins at various points, waste management on the beach is still far from optimal and sustainable.
In the IMPALA UB report, it is stated that the collected waste is only sorted and then burned without further processing. This practice is not only ineffective, but also has a negative impact on the environment. Burning waste produces air pollution, worsens climate change, and damages the ozone layer. This condition causes waste to often pile up in certain areas, such as corners of the beach or paths to camping areas, thus reducing the beauty of the beach and disrupting the balance of the ecosystem.
One of the real impacts of poor waste management is the disruption of the behavior of wildlife, especially Macaca fascicularis or long-tailed monkeys, which live around the coastal area. Commonly, these monkeys look for food from natural sources, such as fruits and leaves. However, now they are starting to rely on piles of garbage. This change not only affects their diet but also reduces their ability to forage naturally.
To overcome this problem, IMPALA UB provides several recommendations. First, education for visitors about the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness needs to be improved. Creative campaigns such as beach cleanliness competitions, ticket discounts for visitors who bring plastic waste to be recycled, or installing warning boards with attractive designs can be solutions.
In addition, beach managers need to adopt more environmentally friendly waste processing alternatives, such as recycling or composting. More intensive and comprehensive cleanliness patrols are also needed to ensure that the entire beach area remains clean. Managers can involve volunteers or environmentalist communities in this monitoring effort.
In terms of wildlife rehabilitation, beach managers are advised to replant fruit trees that are a natural food source for long-tailed monkeys. Restrictions on interactions between humans and wildlife also need to be implemented to minimize negative impacts on these animals.
IMPALA UB emphasized that effective waste management at Kondang Merak Beach requires collaboration between managers, local communities, tourists, and academics. With the involvement of all parties, this beach has great potential to become an example of an environmentally friendly tourist area.
“Kondang Merak Beach not only holds natural beauty, but also a great responsibility in maintaining the sustainability of its ecosystem. Good waste management is the first step towards environmental sustainability,” said one of the members of IMPALA UB.
With joint efforts, it is hoped that Kondang Merak Beach can continue to be a favorite tourist destination without sacrificing the beauty and sustainability of its nature. [UB PR/ Trans. Iir]
