On Saturday, 18 September, Durban volunteers rallied along the coastline to collect thousands of bags of litter and refuse.

The clean-up initiatives were all part of International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) Day, and took place across eThekwini, including the Blue Lagoon and uMhlanga beaches.

Conservation manager at Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve; Basil Pather; claimed that under two tonnes of rubbish had been collected during the Saturday clean-up drive.

“To see so many young people come out and support the clean-up was a real positive. We had Scouts groups, schools and families lend a hand to clean up. Each of the volunteers who helped out were given data forms which helped us break down and understand the types of items we keep finding on our beaches.

“We are so grateful for the support from everyone who showed up and to the organisations who helped make the day a success. We also hope this serves as an eye opener for youngsters on the importance of conservation.”

Darul Ihsan Media Desk