Trash Diving in British Virgin Islands 2014One aspect of plastic pollution is that it plagues shorelines around the planet, and sometimes those are fantastic places to visit. In April 2014 we were fortunate to do a trial run of our “One Beach at a Time” sailing program. Our crew of 21 required three sailing catamarans to accommodate and they proved luxurious for all.
BVI has recently invested in a new waste management facility on Tortola that uses incineration to reduce the trash to ash. This is only a partial solution because the exhaust from the process carries smoke and ashes downwind to neighboring St. John, US Virgin Islands. There are discussions on making more changes.
|
Project SummaryProject Name: BVI 2014, One Beach at a Time
Focus: Sailing Trash Tours Trial Run
Number of Volunteers: 21
GROUPS INVOLVED 3 Boat Private Charter with COI crew instructors
CHALLENGEMake environmental activism interesting, exciting, and sustainable
SOLUTIONSailing expeditions highlight challenges facing the oceans against a backdrop of palm-fringed beaches and golden sunsets and the contrast escalates the motivational factors dramatically. Stir with passionate and informed charter captain and crew and sweeten a snorkel in tropical water. This recipe serves up success.
RESULTSThis was a fantastic trip and everyone had a memorable time. We are starting an ecotourism boom that highlights positive action on plastic pollution.
|