In celebration of Earth Day 2025, the Dyer Island Conservation Trust joined forces with Gansbaai Tourism to host a beach clean-up at the Gansbaai Harbour—and what a successful day it turned out to be!
With the global Earth Day theme “Our Power, Our Planet”, which also encourages community engagement and inspiring collective action to care for our planet. Our beach clean-up was a perfect example of this message in motion.
Nearly 66 dedicated volunteers from the Gansbaai community came out to show their love for the environment. Among them were the bright young minds from the DEEP (Dyer Island Environmental Education Programme) and the team from CMC Medical Emergency who brought energy, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of environmental responsibility. Together, the team managed to collect and remove around 66.2 kilograms of waste, filling 20 large bags of trash from the harbour area. While all types of litter were present, two items stood out in particular: cigarette butts and cable ties.
Our oceans are under increasing pressure from pollution, particularly from plastic and single-use waste. Much of this debris washes up on our shores, harming marine life and disrupting delicate coastal ecosystems. Beach clean-ups not only help to remove harmful litter but also raise awareness about the everyday choices we make and their long-term impacts. Clean beaches are healthier for marine wildlife, safer for local communities, and more inviting for visitors. Events like these remind us how much power we hold as individuals and as a collective to create positive change.
One of the most inspiring parts of this initiative was the partnership between the Dyer Island Conservation Trust, Gansbaai Tourism, and the local community. Collaboration is key when it comes to tackling environmental challenges. By joining forces, we combine resources, knowledge, and people power to make a bigger impact than any one group could alone. When tourism bodies, conservation organizations, and residents come together, we foster a shared sense of stewardship for the natural beauty that surrounds us. It’s not just about cleaning up—it’s about building a culture of care and responsibility.
A huge thank you to every volunteer who showed up, rolled up their sleeves, and made a difference. Your actions inspire hope and show that we truly are the power behind the planet’s future. Whether you picked up one piece of trash or twenty, your effort matters.
As we reflect on this successful Earth Day initiative, let it serve as a reminder that every action counts—and when we act together, our collective power can make a real difference. A big thank you to everyone who took part in the clean-up. Let’s keep the momentum going, not just on Earth Day, but every day.
Because it’s our power, and it’s our planet.
