Eco-warrior fights to save the world

Like most unsung heroes in the community, Denzil van der Westhuizen of the Clean Surf Project is a humble and consistent leader. What sets him aside from the rest however, is his fight to save the planet and rid it of pollution.

Growing up tending baby birds, Denzil was captivated to lend a helping hand to animals wherever possible.  Moving to Warner Beach from Free State, gave him a push into the direction of the marine life and after witnessing the sheer problem caused by plastic pollution, the Clean Surf Project was founded on 27 April 2017.

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However, since April this year, the project was formally registered as a non-profit organisation.  Its no secret that Denzil is a lover of the ocean and when he not out saving the marine life, he can be seen relishing in the surf while buddy boarding or working with the life saving club in Winklespruit, which he is also affiliated to.

“I have always been a lover of all animals not just marine life, but since I moved to Warner Beach in 2010 I was encouraged to look more into sea life.  One of the great aspects of the organisation is not just meeting a lot of new people and children at every clean-up, but its a wonderful feeling to see the difference that you have made after the clean-up.  This is what drives me and it is wonderful that we are making an impact on people all over,” said the eco-warrior.

“What stands out for me is that there are always new faces which means that people are interested in our work.  Since the first international coastal clean-up day to the most recent one, the amount of people and companies who have taken an interest in the organisation is fantastic.”

The Clean Surf Project is also the South Coast co-ordinator of the KZN Marine Waste Network South Coast.  “I don’t really have a life outside the organisation.  Its a fill time job without the pay,” he chuckled.

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Team work makes the dream work is the motto that the conservationist follows.

“The organisation thrives of the support from the community.  A lot of people are involved and help wherever possible.  Even if they don’t attend clean-ups they make it their duty to assist us however possible.  Numerous people assist us and without the volunteers it would not be possible to run this organisation. Any difference matters no matter how big or small.  I encourage everyone to make use of bins, recycle and do not litter.  We should all work together to do something about the problem rather than pointing fingers. What many people don’t know is that plastic has entered the food chain.  A species of plankton are consuming microplastic and these are passed on to fish which are consumed by humans and other animals.  It affects us all.”

He also urges the public to be more responsible with disposing of objects such as syringes, hooks and other hazardous implements.  As an outdoor activity fanatic, Denzil can be seen swimming, running, playing squash and doing woodwork.  He also enjoys spending time with his cat, Whiskers, his girlfriend Romy Wenzel and his family.

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