GEORGE NEWS - George Herald recently caught up with Wilderness resident Dirk Barnard of Tortoise Conservation South Africa, who is leading a beach clean-up initiative along the Garden Route coastline.
Over the last five weeks, Barnard has been tackling litter between the Wilderness main beach and Herolds Bay. He has removed between 1.8kg and 4.1kg of waste per session, collecting items such as plastic cutlery, fishing tackle and discarded tape.
In one week alone, he picked up more than 500 cigarette butts.
Despite limited social media traction, Barnard remains committed. He said the initiative is not just about removing litter, but about raising awareness and changing behaviour. "This campaign is about educating people and inspiring the next generation to make better everyday choices for the environment," he explained.
He highlighted the danger cigarette butts pose to wildlife. Once the paper breaks down, the filter resembles cuttlebone, a calcium source consumed by various species. Animals, including turtles, can mistake it for food, often with fatal consequences.
Dirk Barnard of Tortoise Conservation SA on Wilderness' main beach. Photos: Marguerite van Ginkel
Barnard also warned that the scale of pollution could impact the ability of local beaches to maintain Blue Flag status, calling for proactive intervention.
South Africa is home to three types of chelonians, namely marine turtles, freshwater terrapins and land-based tortoises. Marine turtles are particularly vulnerable, often mistaking plastic bags for jellyfish, which can lead to injury or death.
Inspired by Steve Irwin, Barnard's passion for conservation began at a young age through his father's work rescuing tortoises.
Barnard emphasised the importance of education in protecting wildlife and addressing harmful practices rooted in misinformation. He also raised concerns about the rapid development in the Garden Route, suggesting that even a small portion of development fees could support conservation efforts.
Referencing Yellowstone, Barnard quoted John Dutton, portrayed by Kevin Costner, saying: "We live with the land, not on it." He hopes more people will adopt this mindset.
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