ISTANBUL (AA) – Students in Tuzla, Istanbul, actively participated in a coastal cleanup event, gaining practical knowledge about the extent of marine pollution by examining microplastics under a microscope. This initiative was organized by the Turkish Shipbuilders’ Association (GİSBİR) as part of World Environment Day.
Coastal and Underwater Cleanup Efforts in Tuzla
The event, held at Tuzla Public Beach in collaboration with the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, aimed to raise awareness about marine and coastal pollution. Three professional divers cleaned the seabed, while 60 students from two middle schools in Tuzla collected waste along the coastline. These efforts sought to highlight both underwater and coastal pollution, fostering environmental awareness, especially among children.
Workshops and Microplastic Examinations for Students
As part of the program, students received training on zero-waste principles and participated in a recycling workshop with an art-from-waste theme. Additionally, under the guidance of scientists, students examined seawater samples under microscopes, observing firsthand the effects of microplastics on the marine ecosystem.
Türkan Manasır Öz, a board member of GİSBİR, stated that the Zero Waste Management System has been implemented in the shipbuilding industry since 2020, with the sector continuing its efforts towards environmental sustainability goals.
The event received support from various organizations and associations, including Gemi İnşa Sanayi AŞ (GİSAŞ), Turkish Marine Research Foundation (TÜDAV), Boat and Yacht Manufacturers and Suppliers Association (TEYÜD), WISTA Turkey, and Seagull.
Source: milliyet.com.tr
