On Saturday the 15th of September 2012 South Africa along with the rest of the world will be participating in the International Coastal Cleanup day. Last year about 21,763 volunteers removed 1,014,126 pounds of trash from a 795 km coastal zone. South Africa aims to surpass last year’s figures by raising awareness and encouraging people to partake in the coastal cleanup.
Marine debris is a major problem along shorelines, and in coastal waters, estuaries, and oceans throughout the world. Whilst it is uneasy on the human eye this marine debris can affect marine wildlife in two important ways: by entangling creatures, and by being eaten. Marine debris can be classified as any man-made, solid material that enters our waterways either directly or indirectly. Marine debris enters our oceans and coasts from a number of land- and ocean-based sources.
More people move near our coasts each year, and the production of trash and the potential for marine debris continues to increase. We need to better control the disposal of trash and other wastes, or we will continue to find marine debris in our rivers, streams, and oceans. The most effective way to remove waste from the sea is by holding coastal cleanups and raising the issue of littering as a human ill after all plastics don’t litter people do. You are welcome to join the coastal cleanup event! , for more information you can contact
Name: Mr John Kieser
Position: International Coastal Cleanupn Coordinator
Email Address: john.kieser@plasticssa.co.za