BAGS OF RUBBISH COLLECTED FROM DANGER POINT BEACH

July 23, 2010 by dyertrust

On Friday 23rd July, the Dyer Island Conservation Trust together with the 6th Grade class from Blompark Primary hoped to make a difference and headed off to Danger Point for a beach clean up.

Teams of four were formed and together with the assistance of the international volunteers from Marine Dynamics and teacher, Mr Dreyer, each group collected waste and filled in the data cards which are in turn submitted to the Ocean Conservancy. All data cards and plastic bags are provided for by the Plastics Federation of South Africa.

The clean up is part of an educational campaign by the Trust to raise awareness of marine pollution and its consequences on our marine life. Only one hour on the beach in a 1km stretch and 15 bags were filled with rubbish. The worst offenders were fishing line (160 pieces) and pieces of rags and clothing items (over 300), along with bottles, glass and bags. On return to the Great White House for cooldrinks and hot dogs, the children learnt more about the fishing line bins that will soon be put up in fishing areas by the Trust in a joint project with the local municipality.

The Trust would like to thankGrootbosand Billy Robertson for assisting with transport and really appreciated Hennie and Samuel from MCM (Government Department – Marine & Coastal Management – recently renamedOceans & Coasts)stopping in to say hi and supporting the clean up.

Photos: Ilona Veenema (Netherlands)