The month of October was dedicated to the removal of debris found on beaches in Greece. This year 2,541 fantastic volunteers, most of whom students and educators, took part in the “Join in and Clean Up” campaign, helping us record and remove 3.5 tons of debris from 17.6 klm of beach. Thanks to their enthusiasm nearly 231,000 items were collected including 1,038 plastic single use cups, 1,291 plastic bags, 1,659 plastic straws, 2,585 plastic bottles, 6,053 pieces of plastic debris (smaller than 5cm) and 26,655 cigarette butts!
Irene Katsifou, the Campaign coordinator had this to say: “We travelled to many places, we made new friends and of course… we cleaned up! After twelve cleanup activities we feel proud and we would like to express our sincere thanks to all of you who have devoted your time and passion to help keep our shores litter free. We are committed to continue supporting everyone who wants to be part of the solution.”
Since 2011, the “Join In and Clean Up” campaign is carried out by MEDASSET and the environmental programme “Mission Water” of the Coca-Cola System in Greece (Coca-Cola Tria Epsilon and Coca-Cola Hellas) under the Auspices of UNEP/MAP.
“We are especially happy and proud that the “Join in & Clean up” campaign successfully completed its 3rd year. We significantly invest in raising awareness in thousands of citizens about the necessity to protect the coastal environment of our country. In consistency with our company’s core values, we carry out projects that help protect the environment and contribute to the local communities where we operate. The amazing results of the “Join in & Clean up” campaign are the best reward for Coca-Cola Tria Epsilon and Coca-Cola Hellas.” Georgia Lassanianou, Communtiy & environmental Programs Manager.
MEDASSET has been campaigning for a litter free Mediterranean since 1988. But we can’t do it alone. We need your help to keep our beaches free from litter. During the last 3 years more than 12,000 people have joined the “Join in & Clean up” campaign and have helped make a real difference for the marine environment. Follow us on social media and stay tuned for upcoming events.
Want to do more? Make a donation to MEDASSET and help us to continue our activities and campaigns.
