5 MIN READ
07-30-2025
A 32-Kilometer Journey for a Cleaner Coastline
Dika, 4ocean Indonesia Content Correspondent
The 4ocean Indonesia Beach Team embarked on a long, purposeful trek to reach a remote stretch of coastline known for its natural beauty and panoramic ocean views. Despite the scenic allure, the team faced a disheartening reality: layers of plastic waste and debris, remnants of pollution carried by river currents and ocean tides. With determination and equipped with sacks, ropes, cutters, and protective gear, the crew wasted no time in launching a thorough cleanup.
Upon arrival, the shoreline revealed a grim scene. Plastic bottles, old sandals, styrofoam fragments, organic waste, and countless microplastics were scattered across the sand, hidden in crevices, and tangled among natural debris. The team worked in synchronized effort, carefully separating waste into plastic and mixed categories to ensure proper recycling and disposal. In just a few hours, dozens of sacks were filled, weighing a total of 923.1 pounds of trash removed from the beach.
This cleanup was more than a simple trash pickup. It served as a powerful reminder that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. The team’s commitment highlighted the ongoing battle many shorelines face worldwide against plastic pollution. Santen Island’s condition reflects a broader global issue, but it also demonstrates how persistent, collective action can spark meaningful change.
The most daunting challenge came from the pervasive presence of microplastics, which required meticulous effort to remove without disturbing the fragile beach ecosystem. Additionally, the physical distance between the affected area and the vehicle parking spot meant the crew had to carry heavy sacks for nearly a kilometer—a true test of endurance and teamwork.
Krisna Iza Rabindra, the team captain, reflected on the experience: “Working in the field every day has shown me how vital our role is in protecting not just the ocean, but the rivers and beaches that feed into it. Each cleanup isn’t just about removing trash; it’s a commitment to being responsible stewards of our environment. The discipline and teamwork we build here prepare us to face the bigger environmental challenges ahead.”
As the sun set, the team gathered for a moment of reflection, acknowledging the hard work and the visible difference they had made. While the battle against pollution is far from over, their resolve remains unshaken. Every sack collected is a victory—not just for Santen Island, but for all the coastlines and communities connected to the ocean’s health.
