VOLUNTEERS at Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre in New Quay have been increasing their marine conservation efforts this month by helping to tackle the litter on New Quay’s beautiful beaches.
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC) is the marine wing of The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales (WTSWW) and is dedicated to conserving the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay through research, education and raising awareness.
So far in 2016 , dedicated Living Seas Volunteers based at the CBMWC have collected an amazing grand total of 18,372 pieces of litter off New Quay’s three beaches and the surrounding area. This has included 6,143 pieces of plastic and 4,967 cigarette butts. This year some of the biggest items found on New Quay have been a partially collapsed tent and an abandoned camping chair.
WTSWW’s Living Seas Science Officer, Sarah Perry , said: “Litter can be a real problem in the marine environment, not only for species inhabiting our seas but it can also be a danger to us. The majority of marine litter we collect is plastic of some description much of which can enter the food chain when mistaken for food by fish, seabirds or larger animals such as seals, dolphins or turtles who can mistake plastic bags for jellyfish .
“ As well as a large amount of plastic items , we have also collected discarded nappies, rusty knives, parts of bikes, tyres, dog poo bags , take away packages and the remains of barbecues off the local beaches. We also find broken glass, which could cause real damage to beach users . It seems there just aren’t enough rubbish bins around town to cope with the demand from visitors , particularly during the holidays or when the weather is fine .
“The litter left lying around spoils the look of the area and doesn’t help to encourage others to dispose of their litter in the correct manner either!”
WTSWW are asking people to help make a difference by reducing the use of single use plastic, recycling rubbish, taking their litter home, or joining volunteers for a beach clean. If you’re passionate about marine life and are interested in being involved in marine conservation then you can become a Living Seas Volunteer at the CBMWC.
WTSWW’s Living Seas Volunteer Coordinator, Laura Evans said : “We’d love to hear from any local people that are interested in volunteering with us. You don’t need a background in science to be involved.
“Volunteering with us is a great way to become involved in marine conservation, meet new people and experience Wales’ amazing marine life .”
Add Comment