Solid waste in the sea and other aquatic systems is more than just an unpleasant nuisance for tourists who enjoy beaches, rivers or lagoons; it is one of the most widespread pollution problems affecting waterways around the world.
Through the simple process of passing from a ship to the sea, or from a sewer, or from hand to sand, any manufactured product becomes solid waste.
Cigarette filters, fishing lines, disposable diapers, tampon applicators, can holders (6 pack), tampon applicators, bottles, cans, syringes, tires; the variety of waste is as wide as the products that exist worldwide.
But they all have a common origin. All the waste that ends up in the oceans has been mishandled by someone, somewhere, either intentionally or through thoughtlessness. Every piece of waste has a human face behind it.
Aesthetically, solid waste in seas, rivers and other aquatic systems is unsightly and affects the tourism industry in these areas. More importantly, thousands of marine animals die each year, either entangled in this waste or because they ingest it, believing it to be food. This waste can also pose health and safety problems for humans.
Serious injuries can occur if you step on a piece of glass or metal, or even worse, an abandoned syringe. Syringes, condoms, and tampons are also more serious visual indicators of water quality.
From the 17th to the 27th of this month, civil beach cleaning days will be held along the entire Ecuadorian coast. It is worth remembering that according to the current Constitution, the aspect of beach cleaning is the responsibility of the Municipalities and it is our right as citizens and taxpayers to have this obligation, for which we pay them, fulfilled.
In future installments, we will share more information about the special World Beach Cleanup Day.
Taken and adapted for Ecuador from Ocean Conservancy's Pocket Guide to Marine Debris.
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