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THE problem of solid waste is very commonplace, especially in Guyana. We often see pieces of paper, plastic and other materials strewn all over. While we might think this is restricted only on land, the effects of garbage extends its reaches to our rivers, oceans and beaches. Garbage compromises the health of humans and animals that depend on a healthy ocean, threatens tourism and recreation, causes navigation hazards for shipping and transportation, and it costs a lot of money to retrieve and remove. Because of these effects, Ocean Conservancy, a non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., USA, coordinates the International Coastal Cleanup every year in a bid to protect the world’s oceans and the people and animals that depend on them for survival.
On the third Saturday in September, every year, many groups including individuals from all walks of life carry out cleanups along various beaches and waterways worldwide. While initially cleanups were only conducted in coastal areas, it has now spread to inland regions, since garbage that is released inland also finds its way to coastal waters.
The theme for this year’s Coastal Cleanup is Fighting for Trash Free Seas and it emphasises the work that Ocean Conservancy is doing to stop the flow of garbage from the source: before it even has a chance to reach the water to endanger the sea turtles, and other fishes, and ruin our beaches.
Data collection
International Coastal Cleanup is quite unique in that it does not only focus on picking up garbage, but it is also a data collection exercise. Every item that is found by volunteers who participate in cleanups is recorded on data cards. Ocean Conservancy compiles and analyses the data each year. By doing this, scientists understand what is out there, and therefore measures can be put in place to prevent these harmful items from entering our coastal environment. Every individual can play a part in assisting with this problem. At the EPA, we will be doing our part by carrying out cleanups in collaboration with the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN).
See the table below for the various times and places of these cleanups.
On the third Saturday in September, every year, many groups including individuals from all walks of life carry out cleanups along various beaches and waterways worldwide. While initially cleanups were only conducted in coastal areas, it has now spread to inland regions, since garbage that is released inland also finds its way to coastal waters.
The theme for this year’s Coastal Cleanup is Fighting for Trash Free Seas and it emphasises the work that Ocean Conservancy is doing to stop the flow of garbage from the source: before it even has a chance to reach the water to endanger the sea turtles, and other fishes, and ruin our beaches.
Data collection
International Coastal Cleanup is quite unique in that it does not only focus on picking up garbage, but it is also a data collection exercise. Every item that is found by volunteers who participate in cleanups is recorded on data cards. Ocean Conservancy compiles and analyses the data each year. By doing this, scientists understand what is out there, and therefore measures can be put in place to prevent these harmful items from entering our coastal environment. Every individual can play a part in assisting with this problem. At the EPA, we will be doing our part by carrying out cleanups in collaboration with the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN).
See the table below for the various times and places of these cleanups.
Place Date Time
Region 6 – Rose Hall beach September 15, 2013 06:30 h
Region 4 – Along the Kingston seawall (Pegasus Hotel to Camp Street) September 21, 2013 06:30 h
Region 3 – Uitvlugt September 22, 2013 06:30 h
Region 10 – Linden September 28, 2013 06:30 h
Come out and support the cleanup in your area to join the fight for trash free seas!
