Volunteers rally to save the ocean
Volunteers took to the beach, despite the rain on Saturday, to commemorate International Coastal Cleanup Day.
OCEAN lovers, dedicated to keeping the oceans clean, gathered at the Point Watersports Club on Saturday to clean up Durban's beachfront and North Pier area.
The volunteers joined this initiative, organised by Durban Underwater Club (DUC) and the Point Watersports Clubs, which was commemorated throughout the world on International Coastal Cleanup Day.
Dr Camilla Floros, DUC environmental officer and marine biologist, said this was probably one of the biggest volunteer events, and was annually commemorated at Point Watersports Club.
“We care about the ocean, and clean up land garbage which comes down into the oceans and affects fish and seagulls. Research has shown that by 2050, it is estimated that 90 per cent of sea birds will have plastic in their guts. Turtles and jelly fish are also affected,” she said.
She said fishing gear in the ocean was the biggest threat to marine life. Special permission was given on the day for volunteers to clean up North Pier.
“There are a lot of fishermen on the pier and volunteers and divers are joining forces to clean up what they leave behind. Research has shown that little things such as cigarette butts, straws and everything that isn't natural is killing marine life. The huge problem is entanglement on fishing line. Fishing line which fishermen can't retrieve is left under water and marine life get entangled in this, which causes major problems. Divers are cleaning up underwater today,” she said.
Organisers thanked sponsors on the day, SBV, Dirks Davenport and Fulham's Bakery.
