The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) invites you to come join us as we celebrate and take part in the International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC) day in Knysna, this Friday, 14th September 2012.
ICC has been observed annually in September for more than two decades. Every year more than half a million people in over 100 countries remove various forms of marine litter from beaches and waterways all over the world.
The ICC is one of the largest and most effective volunteer-based conservation projects in the world. It originally started because of one woman’s efforts and concern for the well-being of the coast. In the USA, appalled at the state of the coast, she initiated a clean-up operation of several kilometres. She then partnered with the Oceans Conservancy, one of the largest volunteer-based international organisations, which in turn globalised the concept.
Today, nearly 25 years later, we see the ripple effects across the globe, with over 100 countries participating for one common goal.
South Africa has been participating in the ICC for several years and information on the litter removed from our beaches has been added to the global beach litter database annually.
Local schools and dignitaries will also be taking part in the coastal clean-up.
There will be displays by DEA and local municipality, you will be given the opportunity to conduct interviews and take pictures.
Date: 14 September 2012
Venue: Knysna Estuary
Time: 9h00
Please RSVP with:
Buhle Hlatshwayo
E-mail: Bhlatshwayo@environment.gov.za
For media enquires contact:
Zolile Nqayi
Cell: 082 898 6483
