OVER 400 people recently joined forces with the Nelson Mandela Bay Chamber’s geographic clusters in North End and Perseverance to collect a staggering eight skips, and five bakkie loads, of garbage in the respective areas.
The clean-up effort was part of Nelson Mandela International Day activities, which saw 18 businesses bring their staff members to volunteer and collect a variety of items, including car tyres, plastic bags, paper, and other waste.
In North End more than 200 workers from local businesses participated in cleaning up the North End Lake, collecting two skips and five bakkie loads of garbage.
“The lake is an important aesthetic site and a recreational asset for the Bay, and the clean-up effort highlighted the extent of illegal dumping in the area,” said Denise van Huyssteen, Chamber Chief Executive, adding that the lake serves as a recreational asset for fishing and sporting activities, making it a vital part of the community.
The clean-up effort highlighted the extent of illegal dumping in the area, with car tyres and other heavy items removed from the lake.
Illegal dumping remains a significant challenge across the metro, with garbage regularly dumped in open spaces, some close to residential and business areas.
“The general illegal dumping clearing is done per depot schedule, with a turnaround time of once per quarter. In addition to this, the metro continues to educate residents about the dangers of illegal dumping and consequences,” said Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality spokesperson, Mamela Ndamase, earlier this year.
“The issue of illegal dumping is one that needs behavioural change; the municipality continues to collect refuse across the metro based on the weekly schedule, and urges residents to refrain from the act of illegal dumping.”
Despite the challenges, the community came together to make a positive impact. Van Huyssteen praised the business community for their collaboration and volunteerism.
“It was fantastic to see the way the business community has come together to support Mandela Day. This highlights the growing levels of volunteerism among business people across the Bay, who are committed to unlocking the Bay’s true potential,” she said.
The businesses in North End and Perseverance generously donated protective gear, garbage bags, light snacks, and drinks to support the clean-up effort.
“Positive change starts with each one of us taking action,” said Van Huysteen.
The success of the clean-up effort is a testament to the power of collective action and the difference that can be made when people come together to address social and environmental challenges.
Other alternatives for disposing of waste correctly include:
- Disposing of bulky waste that does not fit the refuse bag provided can be done at the drop off site
- Waste that can be recycled or re-used can also be disposed of safely at the nearest drop off site
- Garden Waste not exceeding one bakkie load per day is also accepted at the drop off sites
- The landfill sites also accept garden or green waste at no cost up to two tonnes daily
- Residents can report any transgressions of the NMBM Bylaws to 041 506 2833 during working hours.
Alternatively call the toll free number for all complaints 0800 20 5050.
