Mx Larisha Apete
PhD Student

Research area(s)

PhD Project Title: A Systems-Based Approach to Finding Solutions for Marine Plastic Waste in Indonesia

Primary Supervisor: Dr Eleni Iacovidou; Secondary Supervisor: Dr Olwenn Martin

Partner Organisation: Emvitrust (Indonesian eNGO)

My PhD research applies systems thinking to understand the drivers of fishing plastic pollution in Indonesia’s small-scale fisheries. I examine the interconnected material and monetary flows within the system, map the stakeholders involved and their relationships, and analyse how socio-cultural, economic and power dynamics influence the use and management of fishing plastics. By bringing these different dimensions together, I explore how environmental, social, economic, political and technical factors interact to shape plastic pollution and its impacts on fishing communities and ecosystems. I use systems mapping and modelling to understand system dynamics and behaviour, identify feedbacks and interdependencies, and pinpoint leverage points where interventions could reduce plastic pollution while improving the sustainability and resilience of fishing systems. 

Research Interests

My research interests centre on using systems thinking and interdisciplinary approaches to address complex environmental challenges. I am particularly interested in pollution, circular economy approaches, sustainability transitions and environmental governance, with a focus on how environmental, social, economic and political factors interact to shape sustainability challenges and opportunities. I am also interested in participatory and community-led approaches that bring together different forms of knowledge and engage affected communities in developing practical, equitable and context-sensitive solutions that support both environmental sustainability and livelihoods.

Research project(s) and grant(s)

Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Doctoral Training Partnership grant (NE/S007229/1)