THE saying ‘not all heroes wear capes’ certainly applies to the WildOceans Blue Port team, who came in their numbers to help clear and rescue Durban’s beaches, mangroves, estuaries and the port after April’s devastating floods.
Following heavy rains, the port often acts as a trap for the large amounts of waste. The challenges facing those responding to a pollution event of this magnitude highlight the growing scourge of marine plastic problem. This international problem has sparked a growing global movement of citizens urging governments to make workable plans to address such problems and prevent future recurrences.
“As Grindrod Bank has developed from a company with a proud history of marine trade, these issues are very close to our hearts,” said Grindrod Bank managing director David Polkinghorne. “This prompted us to contribute to the solution by partnering with the WILDOCEANS Blue Port team to address both the environmental and social challenges linked to waste accumulating along our coastline.”
In March 2019, a dedicated blue port team was established, which has removed more than 12 tons of waste out the port system, 60% of which can be recycled. Much of this includes light-weight plastics like PET and LDPE. “The blue port team are ambassadors for a healthy ocean, cleaning up our port daily and inspiring others to do the same,” said David.
The blue port team were also involved in large-scale clean-up efforts in the port following April’s heavy flooding. Another core aspect of the project is continuous waste monitoring to understand the source, timing and type of waste entering the port. The Blue Port team continue to work within the port, finding new and innovative ways of removing and sorting waste. The ultimate goal of the blue port project is to complement Durban port’s profile and reputation by enabling it to be a prime contributor to a vibrant model that creates jobs while ensuring sustainability for the future.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who were affected by the heavy rains and flooding in the province and we send our heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost loved ones,” said David. “We would also like to appeal to all members of the public to please assist with reducing plastic pollution. Plastic waste causes huge problems at the harbour and damages our province’s proud reputation as SA’s beach capital.”
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