Engaging Communities in Sulawesi Island, Indonesia: A Collaborative Approach to Modelling Marine Plastic Debris through Open Science and Online Visualization

Computer models, including those which simulate physical ocean conditions and track pieces of plastic pollution throughout the environment, often require specialist skills to operate or are hidden behind proprietary software. Ocean models can provide long-term and comprehensive estimates reducing the need to rely on costly, resource-intensive and irregular in-person monitoring. Indonesia, which is both a high emitter of plastic pollution and particularly vulnerable to non-domestic sources of marine litter as an archipelagic state, requires a cross-discipline and cross-sector approach if sources and impacts are to be addressed efficiently. Considering these synergies, this study has modelled surface microplastic transport around Sulawesi Island in central Indonesia across the monsoon-driven wet and dry seasons. We have also demonstrated a replicable framework and methodology to engage interested parties in the results of marine litter modelling. Through a combination of outreach and engagement activities, the impact and relationships of this study has far surpassed its initial funding duration - as evidenced by the continued use and engagement in its outputs. Not only does this study build upon evidence that plastic concentrations in the region are highly influenced by seasonality but also provides recommendations on funding structures, project development and international collaboration to create more impactful, inclusive, and symbiotic research.