We were delighted to welcome Colin Darbyshire from Surfers Against Sewage and Rebecca Sinker from Clean Water Action Group to speak to our students this week, as we build momentum towards our Spring Tide Beach Clean on Sunday 1st February.
Their inspiring talks highlighted the urgent challenges facing our oceans and waterways, while empowering students to see how local action can drive real change. Students learned that around 11 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean globally every year, breaking down over time into microplastics that are now found throughout the marine food chain.
The speakers also explored where microplastics come from – including everyday items such as clothing fibres, packaging and plastic products – and how long plastic pollution persists in the environment. Some plastics can take 20, 30 or even up to 200 years to break down, meaning the plastic we use today will affect generations to come.
Recent pollution incidents brought the issue even closer to home. Students heard about large-scale spills, including millions of plastic pellets washing up on beaches and requiring major clean-up efforts – with much of the pollution remaining in the marine environment. They also learned about the work local volunteers are doing to test water quality along our coastline and alert the community when bacteria levels make it unsafe to swim. Importantly, students explored how many voices joining together can be heard and lead to meaningful change.
The visit reinforced the importance of becoming a Plastic Free Community, where local councils, schools, community groups and individuals work together through events, action and long-term commitment to reduce plastic pollution and raise awareness of the impacts of water pollution.
We are incredibly grateful to Colin and Rebecca for sharing their knowledge and passion, and we look forward to putting learning into action at our Spring Tide Beach Clean on 1st February, helping students make a tangible difference to their local coastline.