Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister Dr Dion George has commended the “remarkable efforts” of South Africans in restoring pride in communities through widespread cleanup initiatives.

Partnering with municipalities, Plastics SA and civil society organisations, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) says it has driven campaigns to tackle pollution, particularly in urban and coastal areas, fostering healthier environments and stronger communities.

It notes that, since September 2024, over 200 000 volunteers, including a significant number of youth, have participated in cleanup events across South Africa, supported through the provision of more than 800 000 sponsored cleanup bags.

These efforts have targeted beaches, rivers, roadsides and inland areas, addressing pollution that affects health, dignity and local livelihoods.

A “standout achievement”, according to the DFFE, is the International Coastal Cleanup South Africa, which saw 4 852 volunteers, half of them children, cover 778.7 km of coastline.

Their efforts resulted in the removal of 111.85 t of waste, collected in 26 265 bags.

The department says this initiative revealed the scale of marine pollution.

Among the more unusual items recovered were a mattress, a toilet and even a dead chicken, underscoring the diversity of waste threatening the coasts.

“These numbers reflect the power of community action. From township cleanups to coastal restoration, South Africans are taking ownership of their spaces. Our youth, in particular, are leading the charge, showing that environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility,” says George.

The DFFE says its partnerships with municipalities and organisations such as Plastics SA have been instrumental in coordinating these efforts. Detailed information on ongoing campaigns is available at www.cleanupandrecycle.co.za.

Additionally, the DFFE is reviewing the 2024 annual reports from Extended Producer Responsibility schemes for paper, packaging, lighting and electronics, with progress to be highlighted in the department’s 2024/25 annual report.

“Every bag of waste removed, every river or beach cleaned, is a step toward a healthier, more equitable South Africa. We salute our volunteers and local heroes who are making this vision a reality,” George continues.