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The seventh edition of the EU Beach Clean-Up Day at Lumley Beach concluded successfully, as the European Union Delegation to Sierra Leone collaborated with local partners to address plastic pollution.
This initiative highlights the EU’s global commitment to environmental protection and aims to raise awareness about the urgent need to keep oceans free from plastic waste.
The clean-up was organized in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the National Tourist Board, and the Freetown City Council. Over 750 volunteers participated in the event, collectively removing approximately 1,500 kilograms of plastic waste along with other assorted trash from the beach.
During the clean-up, EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone Jacek Jankowski emphasized the gravity of plastic pollution, stating, “Every minute, the equivalent of a truckload of plastic waste is dumped into our oceans, endangering marine life and ecosystems. If we fail to act now, these impacts will extend to our own health and well-being. The EU is committed to working alongside Sierra Leone to address this crisis through sustainable development projects aimed at protecting the environment.”
Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr underscored the vital role of oceans, stating, “Our oceans are at the heart of our planet as they provide air, support biodiversity, and sustain communities. Sadly, they are under threat from plastic waste. We must adopt sustainable practices and strengthen waste management to protect our oceans.” She expressed her delight in partnering with the EU for this annual initiative, which raises awareness about maintaining a clean and healthy city.
Nabeela Tunis, the Minister of Tourism and Culture, expressed her gratitude for the longstanding partnership between the EU and her ministry, which has lasted over a decade. “The tools donated will enhance our efforts in routine beach cleaning. Our oceans face unprecedented challenges, but together we can make a real difference,” she stated. “Today’s clean-up is a reminder that collective action is essential for protecting our environment and ensuring the sustainability of our beaches and marine ecosystems for future generations.”
The event drew a diverse group of participants, including government officials, civil society members, the business community, students, and local volunteers, all united in the mission to combat plastic pollution and promote a cleaner environment.
