Think-tank focuses on Montwood litter, dumping problem
The problem is a lack of education
STAKEHOLDERS have committed to keep the Montwood areas (Yellowwood Park, Montclair and Woodlands) clean after a meeting was held on Thursday, 21 September to plan a litter campaign.
Stakeholders including ward 64 councillor Gavin Hegter, Colin Vermaak from Yellowwood Conservancy, Lungile Khanyile and Ayanda Ndlela from DSW education, Brett Strydom from Yellowwood Park Super Spar and Sherryl Reid, deputy principal of Yellowwood Park Primary School, discussed the state of the area and solutions to combat the major issues of littering and illegal dumping.
READ: Whistle blown on Woodlands illegal dumping
The main point raised in the meeting was the lack of education which was cited as the main cause of littering, illegal dumping and a disregard of nature and the upkeep of the area. Brett Strydom, owner of the Yellowwood Park Spar, said the community needs to take responsibility and report illegal dumping when they witness it.
“The problem is a lack of education and I believe the education process should begin at schools. With implementation from the schools, pupils will learn about maintaining a clean environment, take their knowledge home and teach it to their friends, siblings and parents. We can create a ripple effect to combat the problem,” he said.
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Illegal dumping has been an ongoing problem and attempts to eradicate it have proved challenging. “This is about making our area better, to improve our area and the value of our homes,” he said.
Cllr Gavin Hegter added: “I think it is a great initiative by Yellowwood Conservancy and Yellowwood Park Super Spar. I believe by involving DSW education and Yellowwood Park Primary School, we will hopefully be able to change the mindset of some of our residents. Hopefully we can encourage people to become proud of their area.”
