Blue Beach Island and the surrounding Nilwella Harbour area are facing serious environmental pollution, mainly due to the improper disposal of plastic waste.

Blue Beach Island, located in Dikwella, Matara District of the Southern Province, is currently suffering from severe environmental pollution, with plastic waste being the most dominant problem. This area, known for its natural beauty and popularity among tourists, is being degraded due to the careless disposal of plastic items such as bottles, wrappers, containers, and other non-biodegradable materials. A significant amount of this waste originates from the nearby Nilwella Harbour, where no proper procedures or systems are in place to manage plastic waste responsibly. Instead of being sorted and discarded appropriately, plastics are often dumped openly or left unattended, allowing the wind and ocean currents to carry the waste to the nearby island and coastal zones. As a result, the shores of Blue Beach Island are now heavily polluted, making the area visually unpleasant and environmentally dangerous.

Another contributing factor to this pollution is the behavior of the nearby villagers, who also dispose of plastic waste improperly. This is likely due to a lack of awareness, education, or access to proper waste disposal methods. While the villagers may not intend to cause harm, their daily habits of discarding waste in open areas or into waterways directly add to the growing plastic pollution problem. Together with the unregulated dumping from the harbour, this has created a serious and worsening threat not only to the coastal environment but also to marine life, public health, and the region’s tourism appeal. Tourists who once visited for the island’s scenic charm may now be discouraged by the polluted surroundings.

The impact of this pollution is far-reaching. Marine organisms are at risk of ingesting plastic or becoming entangled in it, which can lead to injury or death. The natural balance of the coastal ecosystem is also being disrupted, posing long-term threats to biodiversity and local livelihoods. Additionally, the accumulation of waste contributes to unpleasant smells, attracts pests, and creates health risks for residents and visitors alike. Despite these visible and alarming consequences, no significant action appears to have been taken. Without a proper waste management system, the situation will continue to worsen, making recovery more difficult and more expensive over time.

Immediate and sustainable action is urgently required to address this crisis. Authorities must implement a structured and monitored waste disposal system at Nilwella Harbour, ensuring regular collection, separation, and recycling of plastic waste. At the same time, awareness campaigns should be launched to educate villagers, harbor workers, and tourists about the effects of plastic pollution and the importance of responsible waste disposal. The installation of bins, organization of community cleanups, and placement of educational signage can further support the effort. If prompt action is not taken, Blue Beach Island may lose its natural beauty and tourism value, while continuing to harm marine life and the wider ecosystem.