In celebrating Global Recycling Day, National Water Week and World Water Day the Clean Surf Project team joined by several local organisations took on the “never ending” task of cleaning Umbongintwini Beach.
For their efforts, the Clean Surf Project received the Caroline Reid Award, from Plastics South Africa, which certified their commitment and dedication as a non-profit environmental organisation. The organisation deals in restoring rivers, protecting waterways and the natural environment.
However, despite numerous weekend clean-ups on South Coast beaches, between Isipingo Ledges and Warner Beach, the team of volunteers still found themselves ankle-deep in washed out pollution. Romy Wenzel, of Saphhire Coast Tourism and Clean Surf, said, “This is a never-ending story, but every clean-up makes a positive impact on marine life. If this plastic were left behind it would compound the issue. What we see on our walks is just the surface of a huge global issue.”
The Wild Pack Team, Durban Bay Cleanup, Umkomaas Primary School as well as Durban South Toyota collaborated their efforts with Southern Waste Collectors to collect well over a truck-load of plastics. Wenzel said, “Toyota managed to fill six bulk bags containing recyclable waste, let alone the staggering amount of bags consisting of polystyrene, broken glass, needles, masks, nappies and more nappies!”
The Clean Surf team encouraged locals to join their weekly weekend clean-ups and observe environmental awareness days in between. Social distancing, masks and gloves are mandatory if you would like to participate.
To find out more visit the Clean Surf Facebook page or call 082 802 3353.
