On August 14, 2024, another milestone was reached in the fight for environmental preservation with a highly successful clean-up at the Selho River in Guimarães, Portugal. The event, organized as part of the ongoing #CleanUP4Guimarães initiative, was supported by the REMEDIES program in collaboration with the Municipality of Guimarães and the Landscape Laboratory.
This event was notable not just for its scale, but for the overwhelming commitment from the community. 28 dedicated volunteers came together to clean a 303-meter-long stretch of the river, covering a width of 21 meters. Their efforts resulted in the removal of over 200 kg of plastic litter and an additional 200 kg of other waste, including textiles and non-biodegradable materials.
The Selho River, a vital part of Guimarães’ natural ecosystem, had been affected by waste accumulation, putting local biodiversity and water quality at risk. This clean-up not only helps restore the river’s health but also emphasizes the importance of grassroots efforts in tackling environmental issues.
The REMEDIES program and the #CleanUP4Guimarães initiative highlight the essential role communities play in promoting sustainability and combating plastic pollution. This clean-up was another step towards the 20 Tonnes Challenge, a campaign designed to remove 20 tonnes of waste from European waterways.
