As part of the #20TonnesChallenge, the 2nd REMEDIES Anti-Litter Campaign launched in September 2024, organizing five impactful beach clean-ups across Greece. This initiative, led by REMEDIES partners All For Blue, Marine Conservation Greece, and Impact Hub Athens, aims to remove 20 tonnes of plastic litter from the Mediterranean Sea. The campaign not only focuses on cleaning the environment but also engages local communities, schools, and volunteers to raise awareness and educate participants on the environmental issues caused by plastic pollution.
The #20TonnesChallenge is designed to tackle plastic waste and safeguard Greece’s coasts, especially those on small islands, which are highly vulnerable to pollution. Volunteers from various regions have come together to participate in this effort, highlighting the importance of collective action for environmental preservation.
Key highlights from the recent clean-ups:
- Pylaia-Chortiatis Beach, Thessaloniki (September 20, 2024): 55 participants cleaned 153 meters of beach, removing 12.3 kg of plastic and 28.7 kg of other waste.
- Oinousses Island Beach (September 24, 2024): 32 volunteers cleaned a 25-meter stretch, collecting 7.9 kg of plastic and 14.6 kg of other waste.
- Ixia Beach, Rhodes Island (October 9, 2024): 36 participants cleaned 88 meters of beach, gathering 21.2 kg of plastic and 32.7 kg of other waste.
- Maleme Beach, Crete Island (October 11, 2024): 24 volunteers covered 248 meters of beach, removing 17.3 kg of plastic and 26.9 kg of other waste.
- Asimaki Beach, Sounio, Attiki (October 12, 2024): 53 participants cleaned 167 meters of beach, collecting 23.7 kg of plastic and 37.4 kg of other waste.
Total Impact: In total, 200 volunteers removed 82.4 kg of plastic and 140.3 kg of other waste from 681 meters of beach, contributing significantly to the campaign’s mission of reducing plastic waste in the Mediterranean.
This campaign is not just about cleaning beaches but also about inspiring ongoing action. Through education, community involvement, and environmental stewardship, the REMEDIES program is fostering a culture of sustainability and responsibility towards the environment.