LEADING THE WAY ON INTERNATIONAL DAY OF ZERO WASTE

The International Day of Zero Waste, observed on the 30th of March annually, highlights the urgent need for sustainable waste management and environmental responsibility. iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is committed to preserving its diverse ecosystems while promoting eco-friendly practices and uplifting surrounding communities.

As iSimangaliso continues to attract an ever-increasing number of tourists, pollution has become one of the major challenges faced by the Park. Additionally, communities in and around the Park generate waste that often ends up affecting delicate ecosystems and wildlife within the Park. Plastic waste, discarded food packaging and other pollutants can harm marine life, contaminate water sources and ultimately disrupts the unique balance of this environment. As part of its commitment to both conservation and social responsibility, the Park Authority has implemented several key initiatives, such as clean-up campaigns to help maintain the Park’s pristine environment.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park hires contract workers from surrounding communities, as well as those living adjacent to the Park, to assist with clean-up operations. This initiative not only helps keep the park clean but also provides much needed employment opportunities. By creating jobs and promoting environmental awareness, iSimangaliso continues to play a vital role in alleviating poverty and ensuring that local communities benefit from the Park’s conservation efforts. Local communities are engaged through educational programs that promote ethical waste disposal and waste reduction, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. Initiatives such as clean-up campaigns help maintain the Park’s pristine environment by addressing waste at both visitor and community levels.