International Coastal Cleanup – Cape Town, South Africa

Saturday 17 September saw the International Coastal Cleanup taking place around the world, with the Save Our Seas Shark Centre participating in two local events: an underwater cleanup at Simon’s Town, and a beach cleanup from Muizenberg to Kalk Bay.

divers among yachts

Divers among the yachts.

About 50 divers, mostly from the University of Cape Town underwater club, spent all morning pulling out loads of stuff from underneath the yacht moorings, including car tyres, a starter motor, cell phones, glass bottles, and pretty much all junk associated with boating.

tyres aplenty

Many car tyres came out of the harbour…

glass bottles

…no shortage of glass bottles, either!

Another group of intrepid cleaners walked the seashore from Muizenberg, collecting plastics and other rubbish along the way. For their efforts they were treated to the amazing sight of Southern Right whales lolling in the shallow inshore waters near St James beach. The whales are many in False Bay at the moment, and provide excellent viewing being so close inshore.

beach cleaner with whale in background

A beach cleaner puts rubbish into a bag, while a whale plays offshore.

The International Coastal Cleanup was organised locally by the Plastics Federation of South Africa. Thank you to all our supporters who pitched in and made it a great day!

cleaner resting

A tired cleaner rests a while.