Plastic Free Avoca Beach will hold a community clean-up in Hunter Park on Saturday, December 18.
Registration will be open from 8:30am, with the clean-up to take place from 9-10am followed by morning tea.
A spokesperson said more than eight million tons of plastic enters the ocean every year and up to 40,000 pieces of plastic are estimated to float in every square kilometre of ocean.
“Not only is this unsightly but it can be harmful to wildlife such as turtles, dolphins and seabirds who mistake it for food or get entangled in it,” the spokesperson said.
“If you’re concerned about the amount of plastic and other litter you see on our beaches and foreshores, come join our community clean up.
“This event will be family friendly and inclusive – everyone is welcome.
“Clean up equipment will be provided but please bring gloves and a reusable coffee cup for morning tea.”
All rubbish collected will be sorted, counted and recorded in the Australian Marine Debris Database which is used by scientists and researchers tackling the problem of marine pollution.
You can register on the day or in advance at Clean Up Australia.
Established in late 2019, Plastic Free Avoca Beach aims to support the local community in reducing single use plastics.
It has organised beach clean ups and used clothing swaps, photo and art competitions and kids craft sessions to raise awareness around single-use plastics and marine pollution.
The group uses social media to share information and ideas about environmentally conscious and sustainable initiatives.
New members and supporters are always welcome – just search for Plastic Free Avoca Beach on Facebook and Instagram.
Source:
Media release, Dec 7
Plastic Free Avoca Beach