A total of 100 discarded nappies were collected along the Milnerton Lagoon’s shoreline last week during a beach clean-up effort.
Also read: Activist Zoë Prinsloo to represent SA at Swiss sustainability programme
According to Zoë Prinsloo, the founder of the environmental group Save a Fishie, this discovery highlights why awareness and action on the proper disposal of waste (especially in coastal areas) are important.
‘So we took a walk all the way to the pier to the left of Lagoon Beach Hotel and wow, what a mess! Nappies stood out, around 100. Can’t even begin to list items. Name it and we probably picked it up,’ says Prinsloo.
‘Bags, shoes, lighters, cigarette butts, condoms, bottles, plastic containers, straws, lollipops and earbud sticks, the list is endless.’
As per News24, the volunteers collected 361kg of waste on the beach.
She also called on several major nappy manufacturers to ‘step up, help out and sponsor a beach cleanup’. She posted her message to the companies on Facebook: ‘Who is brave enough to reach out first?? Do the right thing!!’
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In response to a question a resident asked her on social media on why she (Prinsloo) believes that companies such as Pampers and Huggies should ‘step up’ and sponsor a clean-up, Prinsloo replied:
‘Great question! Firstly, they are responsible for the production and distribution of these items, so they should also be responsible for their proper disposal. Secondly, littered products can harm marine life and damage the ecosystem of the beach.’
‘By holding manufacturers accountable, they will be incentivised to create more sustainable and eco-friendly products.’
‘Additionally, it will help raise awareness about the impact of littering on beaches and encourage consumers to make more conscious choices. Ultimately, manufacturers have a duty to take responsibility for the environmental impact of their products.’
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Also read:
Zoë Prinsloo aims for world record of longest beach clean-up this weekend
Picture: Save a Fishie / Facebook