Posted: September 26th, 2023

Garbage from Ship Sources in West Africa

Garbage from Ship Sources in West Africa

West Africa is a region that faces many environmental challenges, such as deforestation, soil erosion, water scarcity, and pollution. One of the major sources of pollution in West Africa is garbage from ship sources, which refers to any solid waste that is generated on board ships and disposed of at sea or in ports. This garbage can include plastic, metal, paper, food, oil, chemicals, and hazardous materials. Garbage from ship sources can have negative impacts on the marine ecosystem, human health, and the economy of West Africa.

Impacts on the Marine Ecosystem

Garbage from ship sources can harm the marine ecosystem in various ways. First, it can entangle or injure marine animals, such as turtles, dolphins, whales, and seabirds. Some animals may also ingest garbage, which can cause internal injuries, starvation, or poisoning. Second, it can introduce invasive species or pathogens into the marine environment, which can disrupt the natural balance and biodiversity of the ecosystem. Third, it can degrade the water quality and reduce the oxygen levels in the water, which can affect the growth and survival of marine organisms. Fourth, it can accumulate on the seafloor and create physical barriers or habitats for some species, which can alter the natural structure and function of the ecosystem.

Impacts on Human Health

Garbage from ship sources can also pose risks to human health in West Africa. First, it can contaminate the seafood that people consume, which can lead to food poisoning or exposure to toxic substances. Some of these substances may have carcinogenic, mutagenic, or endocrine-disrupting effects on humans. Second, it can increase the risk of waterborne diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis. These diseases can be transmitted by contact with polluted water or ingestion of contaminated water or food. Third, it can create aesthetic and sanitary problems in coastal areas, which can affect the well-being and quality of life of local communities.

Impacts on the Economy

Garbage from ship sources can also have economic consequences for West Africa. First, it can damage the fishing industry, which is a vital source of income and food security for many people in the region. Garbage from ship sources can reduce the fish stocks, affect the fishing gear and equipment, and lower the market value and quality of the fish products. Second, it can affect the tourism industry, which is a potential driver of economic growth and development in West Africa. Garbage from ship sources can deter tourists from visiting or staying in coastal areas, which can reduce the revenue and employment opportunities for local businesses and services. Third, it can increase the costs of cleaning and managing the waste, which can divert resources from other social and environmental needs.

Conclusion

Garbage from ship sources is a serious environmental problem that affects West Africa in multiple ways. It can harm the marine ecosystem, human health, and the economy of the region. Therefore, it is important to take actions to prevent and reduce garbage from ship sources in West Africa. Some possible actions include implementing and enforcing international and regional regulations on waste management on ships and ports; promoting awareness and education among ship operators and crew members on the impacts and prevention of garbage from ship sources; developing and improving waste collection and disposal facilities and services in ports; encouraging and supporting recycling and reuse of waste materials; and engaging and collaborating with stakeholders from different sectors and levels to address this issue.

References

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– Eriksen M., Lebreton L.C.M., Carson H.S., Thiel M., Moore C.J., Borerro J.C., Galgani F., Ryan P.G., Reisser J., 2014. Plastic pollution in the world’s oceans: More than 5 trillion plastic pieces weighing over 250000 tons afloat at sea. PLoS ONE 9(12): e111913.
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– Nwankwoala H.O., Udom G.J., 2020. Marine litter pollution along West African coast: A review. Journal of African Earth Sciences 170: 103883.
– UNEP/Abidjan Convention Secretariat/Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, 2016. Marine Litter Assessment in the Abidjan Convention Region. UNEP, Nairobi.