In celebration of International Coastal Clean-up Day, a project of Ocean Conservancy, the team at Dyer Island Conservation Trust (DICT), in partnership with Marine Dynamics Shark & Whale Tours, Marine Dynamics Academy, African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary, and a host of other dedicated organisations and volunteers, came together to make a tangible difference to our coastal environment at Danger Point. #Seathechange remained our guiding theme, motivating everyone to take part. We were thrilled to welcome almost double the number of volunteers compared to previous years—a clear testament to the growing passion for ocean conservation in our community.
Our event saw enthusiastic participation from a diverse range of Conservation Partners, including the Overberg District Municipality, Plastics SA, Sustainable Seas Trust, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), and the Western Cape Government Environmental Affairs and Development Planning. Together, we embarked on a mission to restore the natural beauty of our shoreline and protect the marine life that calls it home.
Volunteers of all ages—armed with gloves, bags, and an unwavering commitment to the cause—began the essential work of collecting trash and debris from our coastline. With over 300 volunteers, 78 bags of trash weighing just over 573 kg were collected. The main offenders were discarded fishing line and plastic bottles. Bigger items included a tyre, three crates, a thick rope and some building rubble. No piece of litter was too big or small to escape the attention of our vigilant volunteers. By the end of the day, we had removed an impressive amount of waste, leaving behind a cleaner and safer environment for both people and wildlife.
The impact of marine debris on wildlife, especially vulnerable species like the endangered African penguin and seabirds, cannot be overstated. Every year, millions of tonnes of plastic waste enter our oceans, threatening marine ecosystems and endangering species. The #Seathechange movement is about more than just one day of action—it’s a call to rethink our relationship with plastic and waste. By raising awareness and getting involved in clean-up efforts like this one, we aim to inspire ongoing change in the way we care for our coastlines.
Plastic pollution poses a serious threat to marine ecosystems, with alarming projections that by 2050, our oceans could contain more plastic than fish, as predicted by the Ellen McArthur Foundation. A staggering 36% of plastic produced is used in packaging, and over 85% of this packaging waste ends up in landfills, incinerators, or the ocean. A study published in Nature Sustainability highlights that plastic bags, bottles, food containers, cutlery, and wrappers make up nearly half of all ocean trash. Each year, around 8.8 million tonnes of plastic waste enter our oceans, endangering marine life and ecosystems while introducing harmful microplastics into the food chain—potentially leading to long-term health issues, including male infertility.
As we reflect on the day’s accomplishments, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every volunteer and partner who made this event possible. Together, we are creating a cleaner, healthier future for our oceans and the wildlife that depends on them. We look forward to welcoming even more volunteers next year as we continue to #Seathechange!
A huge thank you goes out to our volunteers!
Gansbaai Tourism, Silwerjare Dienssentrum, Gansbaai Primer, Masakhane Primary School, Gansbaai Academia, Hermanus Cubs Club, Endumisweni Christian Fellowship Centre and various community members.
Stay tuned for more upcoming conservation events and initiatives hosted by DICT and Marine Dynamics, and thank you for being part of the solution! If you couldn’t join us this time, don’t worry! There are always opportunities to get involved in local clean-ups and conservation projects. Download the Clean Swell App and be ready to document the debris during the next clean-up event, or go on solo clean-ups and continue to support this cause throughout the year.
Follow our social media channels for updates on how you can participate or contribute to our ongoing efforts.
