Unhas Integrated Plan to Protect Aquatic Ecosystems and Reduce River Pollution

Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas) has established a comprehensive and integrated plan to safeguard aquatic ecosystems and mitigate river pollution, underscoring its strong commitment to environmental sustainability. This initiative is guided by the Circular Letter No. 41699/UN4.1/KM.01.03/2022, later refined through Circular Letter No. 28720/UN4.1/KM.01.03/2024 on the Protection and Prevention of Marine and Terrestrial Pollution. Together, these policies provide an institutional framework for minimizing human-induced physical, chemical, and biological impacts on marine and freshwater environments.

In collaboration with the Provincial Government of South Sulawesi, the Faculty of Marine Science and Fisheries (FIKP) is developing a Zoning Plan for the Bone Bay Conservation Area. Through this zoning plan, Bone Bay is expected to become a conservation area that protects coastal and marine biodiversity and supports sustainable development in the marine and fisheries sectors across South Sulawesi. This initiative represents a strategic step toward the sustainable management of coastal and marine resources, aiming to preserve biodiversity while supporting the long-term socio-economic development of fisheries and marine sectors in South Sulawesi.

Unhas has partnered with the Maros Regency Government since 2023 to implement the Trash Trap Program, a pioneering effort designed to intercept plastic waste in upstream river areas before it reaches downstream ecosystems and coastal zones. Following its success, the program has been expanded to multiple regions, including Pinrang, Bone, and Makassar, positioning Unhas as a leading institution in reducing river-based pollution that threatens aquatic biodiversity in Indonesia.

The Trash Trap initiative not only addresses the accumulation of plastic waste but also mitigates the chemical contamination caused by the degradation of plastics into microplastics and toxins. Ecologically, it contributes to restoring the biological balance by protecting aquatic habitats and species from pollution-related threats.