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.
