The dichotomous perceptions of marine debris in Miyako, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

Marine debris is an issue with global implications that cannot be managed within a single sector or disciplinary field. Small islands in particular are vulnerable to disproportionate impacts from marine debris, whether they are social, economic, or cultural. Although a growing number of governmental bodies and civil society organizations are mobilizing to tackle marine debris on both global and local scales, there is often a disconnect between the work of a few impassioned groups with the rest of the population. To determine why this dichotomy exists, this paper explores different perceptions of marine debris through semi-structured interviews in Miyako, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. While there are NGOs and residents who are involved with activities to mitigate the impacts of marine debris to Miyako, this sentiment is not shared across the island. To address marine debris issues on Miyako, there is a need to acknowledge underlying political, economic, and social factors that contribute to an individual's decision to participate in activities, including joining beach clean-up events or reducing consumption of single-use plastics. Engaging the local population with marine debris activities therefore requires a more holistic consideration of Miyako's evolving political, economic, and social landscape. When the various perceptions of urgency, actions, and priorities are taken seriously, Miyako can better engage the general public with marine debris. Doing so can then prepare Miyako to contribute to the marine debris discourse at a national and international scale. Results of this study can be applied in other locations by acknowledging those underlying factors that may drive how a community prioritizes, implements policies, or enforces actions to mitigate marine debris.