Malta’s Weekend Seabed Cleanup: 425kg of Waste Retrieved
Malta’s Coastal Treasure: 425kg of Waste Retrieved in Weekend Seabed Cleanup
Imagine diving into the crystal-clear waters off Malta’s coast, only to find yourself surrounded by a grim reminder of our throwaway culture. This was the reality for volunteers who took part in last weekend’s seabed cleanup, organised by the Malta Clean Up NGO. The result? A staggering 425kg of waste, including old tyres, fishing nets, and even a bicycle, hauled from the depths and brought to the surface.
Diving into the Problem
Malta’s waters, while renowned for their beauty, are not immune to the global issue of marine litter. The seabed cleanup, held in collaboration with the Ministry for Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Change, aimed to tackle this problem head-on. Divers and snorkellers descended on popular diving spots like Cirkewwa and Qawra, armed with gloves, bags, and a determination to make a difference.
Among the volunteers was Mark Bonnici, a seasoned diver and environmental activist. “It’s heartbreaking to see what we found,” he said, “but it’s also inspiring to see so many people coming together to protect our seas.”
What Was Found and Why It Matters
The waste collected was a mix of the mundane and the unexpected. Old tyres, plastic bottles, and fishing gear were among the most common items found. But there were also more unusual finds, like the bicycle discovered by a diver off the coast of St. Paul’s Bay.
Why does this matter? Because marine litter is a serious threat to Malta’s marine life and ecosystems. Discarded fishing gear can entangle and injure wildlife, while plastic waste can be ingested, causing harm or death. cleanups like these provide valuable data on the types and sources of marine litter, helping inform future prevention strategies.
This cleanup is just one part of Malta Clean Up’s ongoing efforts to keep our islands clean. The organisation, founded in 2016, has since organised numerous beach and countryside cleanups, as well as awareness campaigns. Their work is a testament to the power of community action and the importance of environmental stewardship.
As for the waste collected, it will be sorted, recycled where possible, and disposed of responsibly. It’s a small step, but one that sends a clear message: Malta’s seas are worth fighting for.
So, what can you do? Join the next cleanup, reduce your plastic use, and spread the word. Because every piece of waste prevented from entering our seas is a victory for our marine environment.
