Save Omani Beaches

Just before we enter curfew tomorrow in Oman, I have joined a Clean-Up Initiative today. As the world went into lockdown due to the threat of the coronavirus crisis, the environment breathed a sigh of relief. However there is a new kind of pollution, millions around the world turned to single-use plastics to combat the coronavirus and more coronavirus waste is found on streets, oceans, and communities. Interestingly, the main reason people litter is that they simply feel like it when people feel no sense of ownership in their community, it’s not their responsibility.

Some think that cleanups are a pointless exercise, but they are a powerful tool in the battle to beat plastic pollution. Clean up campaigns, like Save Omani Beaches and other initiatives do make a difference and not just in the short term. Every piece of trash that is taken away to be recycled or deposited in a landfill means there is one less dangerous item for birds, turtles or whales to swallow. Cleanups also restore these creatures’ habitats. But more importantly, beach clean-ups also serve to educate. When volunteers see just how much plastic is deposited on our shores, they are often inspired to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics, and, crucially, to spread the word to others. The environmental consequences of litter can have economic impacts as well with restorations of damaged ecosystems and polluted waterways, injuries to wildlife, and even possible injuries to human health. We cannot afford to take litter for granted. Think about it. Why would you make something that you’re going to use for a few minutes out of a material that is going to last forever, and you’re just going to throw it away. What’s up with that? Reduce your ecological footprint !!!

Be part of the solution to plastic pollution by choosing to refuse single-use plastics. A small change will collectively make a massive difference to our communities. Additionally, you can join local initiatives, such as the one that happened today Saturday, October 10th. Save Omani Beaches hosted their 68th cleanup, where committed and enthusiast volunteers met at 6:30 am at the beach to help collect waste. All you need to do is bring a pair of work gloves and water along.