UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

10/01/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/02/2024 08:12

Coastal cleanup in Kenya: Youth from UNESCO network take action for marine conservation

The clean-up, led by Ms. Mwanamisi Twalib, the Warden of Watamu Marine Park, united a diverse group of participants. Representatives from youth groups, women's groups, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forest Service, local communities, schools, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations all came together for this important cause. The group collaborated to remove plastics, discarded nets, and other harmful debris from the shoreline. Their collective efforts not only improved the cleanliness of the beach but also contributed to the protection of marine life and the overall health of the coastal ecosystem.

This annual event is crucial for protecting the marine ecosystem and ensuring coastlines remain free of trash. On this day, about 1,000 kilograms of plastic were collected during this event, marking it a success in raising awareness especially on the marine animals that are at risk of ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic and other waste, which can lead to severe injuries or even death. By removing debris, the team helps safeguard marine life and promotes a healthier, cleaner environment for all.

"It's inspiring to see everyone including the youth come together for a common cause," said another MAB Youth Member. "We must continue these efforts to protect our coastlines."

UNESCO

Tackling plastic pollution

Each year, over eight million tons of plastic enter the ocean, adding to the 150 million tons already present. Without decisive action, plastic could outweigh fish in the seas by 2050. Urgent intervention is needed to prevent this alarming projection and protect marine ecosystems. Plastics persist in the ocean for an extremely long time, and their sheer volume is staggering-there are approximately 46,000 pieces of plastic litter per square mile of ocean. This poses a serious threat to the health of our oceans, which in turn affects human health.

Marine debris harms wildlife, disrupts ecosystems, and poses risks to people who depend on the ocean for their livelihoods. Additionally, it causes significant economic damage by negatively impacting industries like fishing, tourism, and recreation, which are vital sources of income for coastal communities.

A local tourist guide said: "A clean beach attracts more tourists, which benefits our community. It's important for us to maintain this beauty."

The presence of plastic waste in the ocean not only threatens marine life but also undermines the well-being of communities that rely on healthy oceans for sustenance and economic stability. Urgent action is needed to address this growing environmental crisis.

"Our heritage is deeply connected to the sea," said a member of the Bajun indigenous community. "Protecting it is not just an environmental duty but a cultural one as well."

Through a Gazette Notice in 2017, the Kenyan government banned the use, manufacture and importation of plastic bags used for commercial and household packaging. Since then, Kenya has attained over 80% success in ban enforcement. But challenges have been experienced with enforcement since some of neighbouring countries still use polythene bags and the same are illegally imported to Kenya.

UNESCO

Man and Biosphere (MAB) Youth Network In Kenya

Kenya's Man and Biosphere (MAB) Youth Network plays a crucial role in conservation and biodiversity preservation within UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserves. By engaging young people in these efforts, the network fosters a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the environment. In Kenya, their clean-up activities in coastal and marine Biosphere Reserves, such as Watamu Marine Park, are vital. These initiatives help remove harmful debris, protect marine life, and maintain healthy ecosystems. The involvement of youth ensures the sustainability of these efforts, as they bring energy, innovation, and a long-term commitment to preserving biodiversity for future generations.

During the clean-up, the warden and other officials emphasized the critical role of Kenya's coastline in supporting a rich and diverse marine ecosystem. Local communities were urged to take an active role in protecting the coastal environment by adopting responsible waste management practices, such as proper disposal of waste and reducing plastic use.

"Keeping our waters clean is essential for our livelihood," said a fisherman. "We rely on a healthy marine environment for fishing."

UNESCO