Dawesville, with its idyllic location between the ocean and the estuary, is a community that takes pride in its natural surroundings. However, this serene environment faces a growing issue: plastic waste. Coastal winds carry plastics into the bush, ocean, and estuary, where they break down into microplastics that threaten both wildlife and human health.

In coastal areas like Melros Beach and Florida Beach, plastic waste does more than litter the landscape. It chokes, suffocates, and causes slow, painful deaths for wildlife that ingest or become entangled in it. Marine life, birds, plants, and even humans are affected by these microplastics, which find their way into the bellies of all living creatures. This is plastic we have put there, and it's causing extensive harm to our environment.

Sources of Plastic Waste

Much of the plastic waste originates from building sites, where truckloads of refuse often escape into the environment. Domestic rubbish and litter left by tourists and locals add to the problem. Items like fishing lines, hooks, bait bags, and even rubber from car burnouts contribute to the spread of microplastics.

Strategies to Manage and Reduce Plastic Waste

Managing and reducing plastic waste in Dawesville requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some effective strategies:

• Enclosed Refuse Bins: Building sites should use enclosed refuse bins to prevent trash from being blown around. Securing these bins can significantly reduce scattered waste.
• Daily Site Cleanups: Implementing mandatory daily cleanups at construction sites can prevent waste accumulation and ensure that debris is properly disposed of.
• Higher Fines: Enforcing higher fines for letting garbage blow around can serve as a deterrent and encourage better waste management practices.
• Community Cleanups: Organizing regular community cleanup events can help remove existing waste and foster local pride and involvement.
• Education and Awareness: Running educational campaigns to inform residents and visitors about the impact of plastic waste and how to minimize it can drive behavioural change.
• Sustainable Alternatives: Encouraging the use of sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics can reduce the overall amount of plastic waste generated.
• Knot Your Plastics: Tying plastic items in knots prevents them from blowing around as easily and stops wildlife or insects from crawling inside, adding an extra layer of protection.
• Proper Bin Management: Avoid overstuffing domestic bins, as ravens, magpies, and other birds can pull garbage out. If you see bins blown over, be a good neighbour and pick them up.

Call to Action

Everyone in Dawesville has a role to play in tackling plastic waste. By taking proactive steps and working together as a community, we can protect our precious coastal environment and ensure a healthier future for all. Whether it's participating in cleanup events, securing trash properly, or choosing sustainable alternatives, every action counts.

For more information on how you can get involved and make a difference, visit Dawesville Community Cleanup.