Benoni’s three community-driven clean-up organisations, Litter Bugs, Clean Projects and Homestead Helpers for Benoni, each recently received the Caroline Reid Eco-Warrior Award.
These entities have been making waves throughout the community hosting large-scale clean-ups, which have seen the city’s open spaces donning a crisp green jacket largely devoid of litter.
Recognising their tireless efforts, Douw Steyn, sustainability director at Plastics SA, presented Alison Etherington (Clean Projects), Nina Visser (Homestead Helpers for Benoni) and Samantha Choles (Litter Bugs) with the award.
“Our company established the award in memory of Caroline Reid, who dedicated her time to protecting marine life environments along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline,” explained Steyn.
“She coordinated hundreds of beach and diving clean-ups. Her passion for conservation played a vital role in creating awareness around marine pollution.”
Visser said she was honored to receive recognition for their ongoing efforts.
“The unwavering support from volunteers, who have generously contributed their time, resources and support to our cause allows us to make a positive impact in our community,” she said.
“Their commitment has allowed us to expand our work from keeping Homestead Dam well-maintained, to tackling other areas.”
Working under the mantra ‘little things matter,’ Entherington says she is delighted to be recognised with the award.
“What we do is certainly a team effort. Generous donations from the community and corporates have helped us to create employment for a group of hard-working group of people who maintain areas we identified as needing maintenance,” she said.
“Volunteers are always supporting our endeavours either collecting litter, painting curbs all in the name of reclaiming the city and making it beautiful.”C
As the co-founder of Litter Bugs, Choles said it is dedicated to all who have supported their monthly litter clean-ups since 2014.
Steyn emphasised the significance of these events, community involvement and a proactive approach to combating plastic litter.
“It is important to drive education about recycling and effective waste management to foster a sustainable environment and neighbourhoods,” he said.
“We urge these organisations as well the public to support Clean-Up and Recycle SA Week from September 16 to 21.”
ALSO READ: Litter Bugs and K1 Recycling ensure marathon is clean
ALSO READ: WATCH: Clean Projects set their sights on the city’s youth
