PEBACC+ calls for improved efforts in addressing plastic waste pollution

By Mary Idu

The Pacific Ecosystem-based Adaptation to Climate Change (PEBACC+) has stressed the need for improved efforts in addressing plastic waste pollution in the country.

PEBACCA + was among the stakeholders who took part in the World Environment Day, World Ocean Day and Coral Triangle Day commemorations on Thursday last week.

Speaking to SIBC News, PEBACCA+ Country Coordinator, Joanne Aihunu highlighted that over 400 million tons of plastic are produced each year with less than 10% recycled.

The rest ends up in rivers and streams, and even in the human body.

Ms. Aihunu said plastic bottles have been found floating near shorelines, with Tangled fishing nets and food wrappers stuck in Mangroves.

“Microplastics- tiny plastics fragments are now everywhere: in the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. Each could be consuming over 50,000 plastic particles annually.”

“That’s not just an environmental concern but it’s a public health crisis,” said Aihunu.

She further stated that over 90% of large fish populations are depleted, and 50% of coral reefs have already been destroyed.

“We’re taking more than the ocean can give. If we don’t act now the future generation will inherit an empty sea.”

“We must do a new way forward-one that restores the ocean’s health and protects it for the long term,” she added.

Aihunu reminds the country at large to share the responsibility to care for the environment.

ENDS//