Altan Uzar, leading a sailing and watersports club in Arsuz, drew attention to the persistent environmental repercussions of discarded items, particularly tires. He elucidated how these materials continuously leach toxins into the water, perpetuating a cycle of contamination.
"These tires continue to poison [the sea] as long as they remain in the water," Uzar emphasized, underlining the imperative of their removal along with other pollutants like plastic bags, water bottles, and petroleum waste.
With a firm commitment to sustained action, Uzar outlined plans to institutionalize the "We Protect our Sea" event, expanding its reach to encompass Arsuz Stream, a crucial ecosystem frequented by fishing vessels. By mobilizing community participation and fostering awareness, the initiative aims to mitigate marine pollution and safeguard the ecological balance of the seas.
Uzar stressed the paramount importance of responsible waste management, advocating for proactive measures to stem further contamination and shield marine habitats from irreversible harm. "Our aim was just to light a small fire, that is, to raise awareness," Uzar remarked, highlighting the pivotal role of individual accountability in curbing pollution. "The important thing is not to throw these tires into the sea."
The cleanup initiative stands as a beacon of hope, igniting a collective resolve to protect our oceans and preserve their invaluable biodiversity for generations to come.