DEAR Editor,-
Coming from another province where there seems to be more emphasis on litter and recycling, I notice the South Coast has a major problem which is going to backfire as it is getting out of hand.
ALSO READ : Many hands make light work of coastal clean-up
There should be more emphasis on waste and recycling and more community participation should be encouraged. The total disregard for consequences is quietly creating a major problem.
It affects young and old, residents and visitors. There is also the misconception that it is a problem only for certain communities. It is each and everyone’s responsibility – especially those who are informed.
The total disregard is unacceptable and should be addressed as a matter of urgency. To create more awareness, pamphlets must be handed out at schools, holiday accommodation and shops. Graphics and posters can be used to depict the wrongdoing and these can be printed in all official languages for everyone to understand.
People should be educated and made aware that their deeds are destructive to this beautiful coastline.
Trash mars the genuine beauty and abundance of nature, which is also being destroyed in the process. Ultimately it affects jobs – if the coast has no visitors there will be less jobs.
Unsupervised council workers should be informed of the destruction created by not understanding or they must be trained to be more diligent when performing duties. Pruning and felling must be done correctly and vegetation must not just be hacked or removed. Nor should pathways, notices boards, pools, etcetera, be damaged during cleaning.
Traffic officers and security personnel should be more vigilant when patrolling and must be given the authority to take action by warning or fining offenders.
There are individuals who have concerns and have, in their own capacity, tried to assist in protecting and creating awareness of the need to clean up the coastline. Their efforts have been commendable and admirable, but it requires involvement from everyone to make a difference.
ALSO READ : Sunday Sessions help clean up Sandspit
In other holiday destinations, a tourism levy of about R10 or R15 is in place for all visitors. The levy is added to accommodation costs to protect the environment and promote conservation.
The South Coast should do the same – before it is too late! This levy can be managed and audited by a working committee which undertakes to initiate an ongoing project of protecting and maintaining conservation. There is no better time than the present. All business owners, corporations and holiday entrepreneurs – this affects you.
Residents can create more awareness in their own right and set examples. Take cognisance and report violators who damage the coastline with dumping and littering. It is everybody’s responsibility to conserve what nature has provided. We are supposed to be the caretakers of our land, environment and oceans. Re-use, reduce, recycle – it’s a great tool.
SERENDIPITY
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
For news straight to your phone, add us on WhatsApp 082 421 6033
