"The sea must be protected because it is a legacy, not our own. It is a legacy from our great grandma to us. Since it is a legacy, we must pass it down to our grandchildren," the minister noted in a press statement, here, Tuesday.
Pudjiastuti stated that ocean is the future of Indonesia.
Indonesia`s coastal line is the second-longest in the world after that of Canada, and if it is managed properly, it could improve the livelihood of the Indonesian population, which is the world`s fifth-largest.
"Oceans constitute 70 percent of the world, while 70 percent of Indonesian territory comprises oceans in addition to rivers and lakes. Over 80 percent, nearly 85 percent of Indonesian territory is water. Hence, water should be the source of life for all of us," she remarked.
The ocean must be preserved since the livelihoods of several people rely on it. For ocean preservation, the public must reduce the use of plastic, such as plastic bags, straws, and plastic cups that could pollute the environment and kill ocean animals.
She cited that Indonesia is estimated to be the second-largest plastic waste producer in the world.
"Ladies and gentlemen, you must know that plastic waste would not degrade in 450 years," she pointed out.
Starting January 2019, the Bali administration will ban single-use plastic items.
Reporting by M Razi Rahman , Fardah
Editing by Bustanuddin
Reporter: Antara
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2018
