The Marine National Park Headquarters has long conducted monitoring of beach debris on Dongsha Island. Survey results indicate that most of the beach waste originates from mainland China and Southeast Asian countries, accounting for more than 60% of the total debris. The majority consists of petrochemical plastic products such as PET bottles, foam, and Styrofoam. Marine debris at sea is primarily made up of discarded fishing nets and gear. Beach litter not only affects the natural landscape, but when it drifts back into the ocean, it can endanger vessels and personnel operating at sea. It also threatens marine life, often causing physical injuries. For example, sea turtles and fish may mistakenly ingest plastic bags and die; abandoned fishing gear can entangle and kill various marine species; and seabirds may consume plastic fragments, mistaking them for food, leading to premature death.

Looking at the issue from its source, preventing marine debris from reaching coastlines and reducing its generation are urgent challenges that must be addressed. Through conservation advocacy and the dissemination of marine knowledge, we hope to inspire everyone to start from the “heart” and actively participate in ocean-friendly initiatives.