In West Africa, plastic pollution is one of the most critical environmental threats, causing severe impacts to both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. This Earth Day, Born Free USA is supporting clean-up activities in Ghana and Nigeria to tackle pervasive plastic pollution and protect threatened wildlife!
Nigeria
In Nigeria, Born Free USA has teamed up with Protect Earth Network (PEN) to reduce plastic pollution in Nasarawa State, which is an important habitat for Critically Endangered hooded vultures and other birds species. The project involves working with women’s cooperatives and artisan groups to provide hands-on training in the production of affordable, culturally appropriate plastic alternatives. The project was launched last week and teams started with a mapping activity to identify plastic pollution hotspots at Ado Market in Karu, with 30 market women, six local officials and local craftspeople. On Earth Day (April 22), a huge clean up activity will take place in Karu.
Ghana
In Ghana, Born Free USA is working with Earth Synergy Initiative (ESI) to address plastic pollution in Shama, which is home to vital nesting beaches for marine turtles such as the Critically Endangered hawksbill turtle. Currently clogged with plastic and discarded fishing nets, the teams in Shama will be spending Earth Day cleaning the beaches and ensuring the plastic is properly recycled. The teams will also contribute to a local radio program to talk about Earth Day and what it means for Shama in terms of addressing plastic pollution, keeping the beaches clean and protecting the mangroves.
Keep an eye on Born Free USA’s social media and blog for updates on these important local projects!
Keep Wildlife in the Wild,
Alice
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The Born Free USA Team
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