Ocean Pollution and the Fishing Community

Abstract

The ecosystem known as the ocean is a large body of saline water covering approximately 71% of the Earth's surface. The relationship between man and the ocean is deeply intertwined as the ocean provides resources for the survival of mankind. Among them, the fishing community and the ocean have a unique relationship. The reason for that is because livelihoods and trade routes have been created for the fishing community through this. With the development of human society, marine pollution has become a global problem today. Fishing also contributes to marine pollution. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the detrimental consequences of the ocean as they affect the fishing community. This research has been conducted using qualitative data analysis approach. The study area chosen for this study is the fishing harbour area of Dondra area. Both primary data and secondary data sources were used for data collection. In-depth interviews, participant observation and focus group discussions were used as primary data collection methods and thirteen individuals were selected as data contributors through simple random method. Reports, research papers, books and internet were used as secondary data. In this research, the types and sources of pollutants can be identified as the waste that the fishing community discharges into the ocean. The garbage that the fishing community dumps into the ocean can be used to identify the types and sources of pollution in this instance. Changes in water quality, sea erosion, and destruction of coral reefs have also affected the ocean system. Excessive growth of algae, bacteria and fungi has damaged the beauty of the coast. Also, the main findings that could be studied in this research are that the risk of health problems for humans and animals has increased through ocean pollution. Furthermore, due to the limited awareness and education in the fishing community, it can be recognized that the adverse effects on the ocean through them are high. Finally, it appears that the fishing community makes a significant contribution to ocean pollution through this study conducted in the vicinity of Dondra Port. Accordingly, fishermen have to face many problematic situations due to the amount of damage caused to the ocean compared to the rest of the community. The conclusion of this study is that if proper measures are not taken to reduce this, ocean pollution through the fishing community may increase further.

Keywords: Environmental, Fishing community, Health, Ocean pollution, Waste