Southsea organisation urges residents to protect ocean and marine ecosystems
Litter pickers have called on Southsea residents to roll up their sleeves, to help protect marine ecosystems and build a conscious community.
Southsea Beachwatch hold monthly beach cleans and litter surveys, which provide vital data to influence government policy.
Shanelle Kohler, organiser at Southsea Beachwatch, said: “We help people to connect the fact that the animals make the beach their home, therefore litter should not be there. It is also something positive and pro-active that anyone can take part in.”
The organisation is part of the Marine Conservation Society’s biggest beach clean and survey programme, which collects information on the amount and sources of litter from over 400 beaches.
Shanelle added: “To anyone considering joining a beach clean, I would say to just come down and give it a try. Southsea beach is a beautiful place to be. It does not matter how much litter you find, just that you took a little time out of your day to take care of the ocean.”
Volunteers can take place in the beach clean on the first Saturday of every month, at Southsea and Eastney beach in Portsmouth.
In previous years, up to 2000 volunteers have picked up rubbish from Southsea beach, however post Covid-19 this can drop to as few as 30 people.
Mark Barsby, 60, volunteer at Southsea Beachwatch, said: “I get a good feeling from it. I enjoy helping, whilst being able to do my little bit for the community.”
The organisers all have their favourites when it comes to what they have found on the beach, including “a burnt chandelier” and “a pirate chest full of chocolate coins”.
If you are interested in taking part, check out Southsea Beachwatch events page for information about upcoming beach cleans, or follow them on social media.