Local youth took to the shoreline on Friday 31 July, turning environmental awareness into direct action during a community beach clean-up at the Helderberg Marine Protected Area (MPA).

The event was hosted to mark World Marine Protected Areas Day under the unifying theme, “Protect Our Oceans, Protect Our Future”.

The initiative, which ran from 09:30 to 13:30, brought municipal representatives, community activists and local youth together. Organised by the City of Cape Town’s Smart Living team in collaboration with the Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement (Hoam), the event highlighted the importance of protecting fragile coastal ecosystems from waste and pollution.

A highlight of the day was the active participation of learners of Christmas Tinto Primary School. Equipped with collection bags, the young volunteers rolled their sleeves up to clear litter from the sand, showing environmental care’s impact.

“There was fortunately very little to clean as active and regular community participation has ensured that the MPA remains largely spotless,” said Lisa Starr of Hoam. “Education and connection is key to respect for the environment, as only when you understand will you protect.”