The Cameroon National Beach Cleanup Day was launched on the 19th of January, 2023 by the Association of Community Awareness (ASCOA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the Government of the southwest region of the country.

The Association of Community Awareness is an international non-profit organization that is concerned with the conservation of the marine ecosystem, the community, and the health of the people. The organization is also involved in Capacity building, Community awareness/Sensitization, Activism, Advocacy, Policy dialogues, and Organizational, Governmental, and International partnerships. Cameroon is the largest producer of plastics in central Africa, with about 75 tons of trash and plastic waste recovered annually from the beach and coastal regions of Cameroon. The beach which used to be a tourist site has long turned into a site for debris and plastic waste, and this causes environmental pollution and also poses a huge challenge to fishermen who go fishing in the coastal towns of Limbe. Marine lives are not left out as it endangers the species in the water and blocks the marine ecosystem from effectively acting as carbon sinks. The ASCOA are on a mission to combat marine debris and plastic pollution in the coastal regions and beach, hence, the official launch of the beach cleanup day.

This National Beach Cleanup Day was launched at the National Conference on Coastal Cleanup with the theme ‘addressing marine debris and plastic pollution through advocacy and education for sustainable ocean and coastline. This conference which took place in Mountain Hotal, Buea, Cameroon on the 19th of January, 2023, was graced by Government officials, local and international non-profit organizations, Youth-led organizations, civic and community-led organizations, as well as the Governor of the southwest region who was represented,  and also the Fishers association of Cameroon. The conference featured expert presentations on the negative effects of plastics and debris on marine ecosystems and biodiversity in Cameroon, sustainable waste management through recycling and waste-to-energy technologies, and the exhibition of recycled waste materials, while highlighting the problems of marine pollution and its effect on the marine ecosystem and the local community.  Proposed solutions and resolutions were made, and the Cameroon Beach Cleanup Day (CBCD) was announced as one of the solutions which will be commemorated on the 21st of January every year. This yearly exercise is to help curb coastal plastic pollution.

The conference was followed by the first edition of the Cameroon beach cleanup exercise which took place on the 21st of January, 2023. This beach cleanup exercise was carried out in the coastal town of Limbe, Cameroon, and had over 1000 volunteers from various organizations and institutions like the ‘Source Du Pays’, Limbe City Council hygiene and sanitation department, Hygiene and sanitation company, For Earth’s sake from the Littoral region, and other participant volunteers.

According to the CEO of the ASCOA, Linus Ayangwoh Embe, the initiative was specifically launched to address the issue of plastic pollution and debris in the coastal regions of Cameroon through activism and activities that address these challenges, while also combatting these plastic pollution problems through advocacy and sensitization. The southwest regional delegate on environment and culture protection, Set Ekwadi Songe, stated that more organizations and volunteers will be trained on the management of plastics for a more sustainable and progressive environmental change.

Before the Cameroon Beach Cleanup Day, the ASCOA team went on an awareness campaign to various National and local media houses to sensitize the nation on the green economy and ocean conservation, as well as the launch of the Cameroon Beach Cleanup Day. Media houses like HiTV; Dream FM; Eden radio; MyMedia Prime TV, Douala; Tiko community radio; and Eternity gospel radio, Limbe were all visited before the launch of the National Beach Cleanup Day.

Introduction 

The fight against plastic pollution is a pressing global issue, and organizations like the Association for Community Awareness (ASCOA) are taking innovative approaches to address this challenge. ASCOA’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its innovative strategies for beach cleanup have garnered attention and praise. In this article, we will explore ASCOA’s pioneering efforts in combating plastic pollution during beach cleanup activities, shedding light on their eco-friendly cleanup materials, recycling initiatives, and educational campaigns aimed at reducing plastic waste. Additionally, we will provide valuable tips on how individuals can minimize plastic consumption in their daily lives.

ASCOA’s Impactful Initiatives

ASCOA has been at the forefront of the fight against plastic pollution, particularly through its beach cleanup initiatives. The organization has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental conservation by organizing and leading beach cleanup activities in Cameroon. These efforts have not only contributed to the physical removal of plastic waste from beaches but have also raised awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

Innovative Strategies for Beach Cleanup

ASCOA has implemented innovative strategies to make beach cleanup activities more effective and sustainable. One of the key aspects of their approach is the use of eco-friendly cleanup materials. By utilizing biodegradable and environmentally safe tools and equipment, ASCOA ensures that the cleanup process itself does not contribute to further environmental harm. This forward-thinking approach sets a positive example for other organizations and volunteers participating in similar initiatives.

Furthermore, ASCOA has been actively involved in recycling initiatives as part of their beach cleanup efforts. The organization has established mechanisms to collect, sort, and recycle the plastic waste recovered from beaches. By promoting recycling and proper waste management, ASCOA is not only cleaning up the environment but also contributing to the circular economy and reducing the overall environmental impact of plastic pollution.

Educational Campaigns and Community Engagement

ASCOA’s commitment to addressing plastic pollution extends beyond physical cleanup activities. The organization has been proactive in conducting educational campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the importance of reducing plastic waste. Through workshops, seminars, and community outreach programs, ASCOA educates local communities, youth groups, and stakeholders about the environmental impact of plastic pollution and the need for sustainable waste management practices.

Empowering Individuals to Make a Difference

In addition to its organizational efforts, ASCOA empowers individuals to take meaningful action in their daily lives to minimize plastic consumption. The organization provides practical tips and guidance on reducing single-use plastics, promoting the use of reusable alternatives, and supporting businesses that are committed to reducing their plastic footprint. By encouraging individual responsibility and behavior change, ASCOA fosters a culture of environmental stewardship and collective action.

Looking Ahead

ASCOA’s innovative approach to beach cleanup and plastic pollution mitigation serves as a model for environmental organizations and advocates worldwide. By combining practical cleanup activities with educational outreach and sustainable practices, ASCOA is making a tangible difference in the fight against plastic pollution. As the organization continues to expand its initiatives and engage with local communities, its impact on environmental conservation and marine ecosystem protection is poised to grow even further.

Conclusion

ASCOA’s innovative approach to beach cleanup and plastic pollution represents a beacon of hope in the global effort to preserve our oceans and coastlines. Through their dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, ASCOA is inspiring positive change and setting a powerful example for environmental stewardship.

This article draws inspiration from ASCOA’s impactful work and the broader global movement to combat plastic pollution. It aims to shine a light on the critical importance of environmental conservation and the role that innovative approaches can play in addressing complex environmental challenges.