BY MAE SINGUAY
BACOLOD City – The Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) is gearing up to participate in the International Coastal Clean-Up Day scheduled for the third Saturday of this month, aiming to tackle the critical issue of marine pollution.
The local initiative will take place starting at 6 a.m. on September 21 at Barangay Punta Taytay beaches, inviting community members and groups to contribute to this global environmental effort.
Ma. Fe Tresfuentes, the head of BENRO, emphasized the importance of the day, which mobilizes volunteers around the world to clean beaches, coastlines, rivers, and waterways.
“This initiative not only removes tons of debris from our oceans but also heightens awareness about reducing plastic waste and other pollutants,” she said.
Participation in the event supports marine biodiversity conservation and ensures the health of ocean ecosystems for future generations.
Tresfuentes highlighted the various roles volunteers could play, from trash collection to data recording and environmental education, all contributing to significant environmental improvements.
Additionally, Tresfuentes noted that the city’s ongoing cash-for-work program has successfully removed considerable amounts of garbage from local coastal and waterway areas, underscoring the ongoing need for responsible waste disposal practices.
She called on residents to maintain daily efforts to keep their community clean and beautiful./PN
