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08 December 2023 Media Release: GRDM and partners conduct Clean-up, Education and Awareness campaign in Mossel Bay

Media Release: GRDM and partners conduct Clean-up, Education and Awareness campaign in Mossel Bay 

For immediate release
08 December 2023

The Waste Management Section of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment’s Local Government Support Section, CapeNature, Mossel Bay Municipality, Henque Waste, Transnet, Nestle and Aquelle, conducted a Clean-up Campaign in Ward 15 of Mossel Bay.

Children from Ward 15 in Mossel Bay, formed part of the Clean-up operation in their area.

The aim of the campaign was to raise awareness about illegal dumping and the ‘Adopt a Spot Program’ for community vegetable gardens and the need for their conservation.

One of the most pressing issues facing our communities is Illegal dumping, particularly understanding how recycling waste works. The campaign encourages members of the community to take part in the clean-up campaign and to not dump waste illegally.  Community members were encouraged to continue with their efforts to keep their spaces clean and they were informed about the importance of community gardens as part of the Program.

The clean-up campaign was conducted after the education and awareness session. A special message of appreciation was extended to all the organisations that were involved to ensure a clean environment for those living in visiting the area.

Did you know?

  • Dumped waste may contain harmful or even toxic substances, which may have health effects such as asthma or respiratory infections on humans.
  • The illegally dumped items might include needles that may be contaminated with HIV or Hepatitis. This is a big concern, especially for children who often pick up items while playing. This threatens their health since they may become infected with these life-threatening diseases.
  • Illegal dumping sites may also be favourable breeding conditions for Ecoli, which may also spread diseases to communities.
  • If there is significant unlawful dumping in certain areas, the chances for the spread of diseases increase dramatically.

Feature image: Representatives from GRDM, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment’s Local Government Support Section, CapeNature, Mossel Bay Municipality, Henque Waste, Transnet, Nestle and Aquelle, with members of the community, during the Clean-up Campaign in Ward 15 of Mossel Bay. 

ENDS