The Positive Marinelife For Change, in partnership with key stakeholders, successfully carried out a one-day underwater clean-up campaign along the coastline of Gizo township shore in Western Province this week.
The initiative was organised by members of the Western Province Network for Sustainable Environment (WPNSE) as part of their ongoing efforts to promote environmental sustainability and marine conservation within the province.
A dive team from Adventure Sports Dive Gizo led the underwater clean-up operation.
Four professional divers took part in retrieving waste materials from beneath the ocean surface, while network member volunteers supported the clean-up efforts along the shoreline.
Country Manager for Positive Marinelife For Change, Heyer Vavozo, said the primary aim of the campaign was to recover waste from the ocean floor to help keep Gizo Harbour clean.
“We want to create awareness among Gizo residents, the general public and visitors about the importance of keeping our town and ocean clean,” Mr Vavozo said.
He stressed that waste management is everyone’s responsibility.
“Waste is everybody’s business, and we all must take responsibility for proper disposal to protect our environment,” he added.
WPNSE Chairlady and Gizo Town Council Waste Management Officer under the Western Provincial Government, Renee Regha Rario, said the clean-up activity forms part of the network’s work plan for this year.
She explained that the program includes conducting regular clean-up activities within marine coastal areas, including the coastline of Gizo township.
“Our marine environment is very vital, and as human beings we benefit greatly from it,” Ms Rario said.
“It is our livelihood, and therefore we must look after and care for our marine environment,” she added.
The organisers acknowledged and thanked Adventure Sports Dive Gizo for providing professional divers to support the underwater operation.
They also expressed appreciation to network member volunteers and the Western Provincial Government (WPG) for their continued support towards environmental protection initiatives in Gizo.
Following the major underwater clean up it was reported massive number of empty cans were found along the coastline with other rubbish includes plastics and other wastes and debris.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
