The Konkan Coast, a pristine stretch of Maharashtra’s coastline, faces a growing threat from used lube oil (ULO) pollution.

Fishing vessels, the backbone of the region’s economy, inadvertently contribute to this environmental crisis by dumping ULO into the sea. This practice poses a significant risk to marine ecosystems, fisheries, and human health.

Problem Statement

The indiscriminate disposal of ULO by fishing vessels presents a multifaceted challenge:

• Marine Pollution: ULO contaminates water, harms marine life, and disrupts the delicate ecological balance.
• Limited Storage: Fishing vessels lack adequate storage space for ULO, leading to its disposal at sea.
• Absence of Collection Facilities: The region lacks designated facilities for ULO collection and recycling.
• Lack of Awareness: Fishermen often lack awareness of the environmental consequences of ULO dumping.

Project Objectives

1. Assess Pollution Extent: Quantify the amount of ULO being dumped and identify the most affected areas.
2. Identify Sources and Causes: Analyze the factors contributing to ULO pollution, including vessel characteristics, operational practices, and regulatory gaps.
3. Evaluate Regulations and Enforcement: Review existing regulations and assess their effectiveness in controlling ULO pollution.
4. Propose Solutions: Develop practical and sustainable solutions, such as establishing collection centers, promoting awareness campaigns, and strengthening enforcement.
5. Raise Awareness: Educate fishermen and other stakeholders about the environmental impact of ULO pollution and the importance of responsible disposal.

Scope of the Project

• Geographical Focus: The project will concentrate on the 357-kilometer coastline of Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts.
• Environmental Impact: The project will assess the impact of ULO pollution on marine ecosystems, including aquatic life and coastal habitats.
• Policy and Regulation: The project will review existing regulations and identify gaps in their implementation.
• Solution Development: The project will propose practical solutions, such as establishing collection centers and promoting recycling initiatives.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The project will engage with fishermen, local authorities, and environmental organizations to foster collaboration and support.

Expected Outcomes

• Reduced ULO pollution in the Konkan Coast.
• Improved marine ecosystem health.
• Increased awareness among fishermen about responsible waste disposal.
• Strengthened regulatory framework for ULO management.
• Development of sustainable ULO collection and recycling infrastructure.

By addressing the issue of ULO pollution, this project aims to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Konkan Coast’s marine environment and the livelihoods of its fishing communities.