Across South Africa, a handful of coastal gems are turning this dream into reality — championing zero-waste living, banning single-use plastics, and rallying locals and travellers alike to protect the ocean.
Why zero-waste beaches matter
South Africa’s coastline stretches over 2,500 km, boasting some of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems. Yet plastic waste, from bottles to microplastics, threatens marine life and the health of these coastal environments. Coastal communities are stepping up — not just through beach cleanups, but by embedding sustainability into tourism, policy, and daily life.
St. Francis Bay
St Francis Bay/Gerhard Venter/Unsplash
Nestled in the Eastern…
Adriaan Basson: Editor of News24, recognized for his investigative journalism and
commentary on political affairs.
lady fantastic
Fun South African Fact: While the country only covers 1% of the Earth’s land surface, South Africa boasts 10% of the world’s bird, fish and plant species as well as 6% of its mammal and reptile species!
Kazmii
In Toronto I saw a bumper sticker on a parked car that read: \”I miss South Africa.\” So I broke the window, took the radio and left a note that read: \”I hope this helps.\”