Marine life dangers highlighted

Keynote speaker, Brent Addison, enthralled his audience at the Umbango River Conservancy’s (URC) AGM held recently, with his experiences as a diver and marine life photographer. Mr Addison, who has dived extensively in several oceans around the world highlighted the dangers facing marine life.

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He said the garbage that humans leave behind as a by-product of civilization and consumption is becoming an environmental hazard not only to the land, but also to the world’s oceans, seas, and waterways. “One of the most appalling examples is the millions of tons of disposable plastic that has found its way into our waters. The sheer amount of bottles and caps, jugs, beads, packaging, and other assorted plastic waste accounts for up to 80 percent of litter in the ocean,” he noted.

At the meeting, URC members acknowledged the assistance given to them by Ray Nkonyeni and Ugu municipalities during the year.

Selvan Chetty, chief whip of Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, congratulated the URC for its sterling work done in respect of environmental issues. Mr Chetty stated the links the URC has forged with local municipalities ensures greater success.

Morgan Naidoo, the URC chairman encouraged guests at the AGM to become members of the conservancy. “The conservancy movement is all about community-driven conservation. Our members achieve a great deal on the conservation front in their town. They would love more support from residents and would welcome some new faces. Come and find out what the organisation is all about,” he said.

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