Beating plastic pollution in Mogadishu: 5 things you can do now
In the vibrant city of Mogadishu, plastic pollution has become an ever-growing concern, posing socio-economic, environmental, and health challenges at both local and global levels. It is disheartening to witness plastic waste littering the streets, beaches, and virtually every corner of the city. This pervasive problem demands urgent attention, as it is far from being a norm. The ICE Institute, as part of our World Environment Day celebrations, stands at the forefront of advocating and pioneering sustainable solutions to combat the pressing issue of plastic pollution. With this year’s theme centered around “Beating the Plastic Pollution,” we are rallying individuals, institutions, and communities alike to unite in taking bold climate action. Together, we must observe, adapt, and transform our ideas, skills, and attitudes to foster greener communities and pave the way for a brighter, cleaner Somalia. From individual choices to institutional initiatives and community-driven efforts, each and every one of us has a crucial role to play in addressing this crisis. Now is the time to mobilize, to embrace a collective approach, and to embark on a transformative journey towards a plastic-free future.
Solving the plastic crisis necessitates a concerted and multifaceted effort from various stakeholders, including individuals, institutions, and communities. Here are detailed steps that can be taken to effectively beat plastic pollution and work towards a greener city:
1. Be a Green Champion: Climate action and mitigating plastic pollution begin with cultivating the right mindset and adopting environmentally conscious behaviors. Recognize the significant role of plastics in contributing to climate change and threatening biodiversity. By reorienting our perception of plastic and making mindful decisions, such as avoiding single-use plastic straws and embracing reusable options, we can make a substantial impact. Reusing and recycling plastic products also play a crucial role in reducing plastic waste. Transforming plastic waste through recycling initiatives not only helps in waste management but also contributes to income generation and environmental preservation. For instance, the outcome of initiatives like the Hack Plastics Challenge hosted by the ICE Institute highlights the benefits of recycling plastics as a win-win solution.
2. Amplify Voices: Speaking out about the detrimental effects of plastics is instrumental in raising awareness and changing mindsets. Educate others about the harms caused by plastic pollution directly and indirectly. Encourage businesses to adopt environmentally friendly alternatives, such as using paper packaging or non-single-use plastics. In some cases, addressing the issue of plastic pollution may require systemic or legislative measures. Utilize social media platforms or direct communication to raise concerns about plastic pollution, providing detailed information and proposing policy options. This might involve advocating for plastic bans at beaches or promoting green alternatives to protect biodiversity and natural ecosystems.
3. Innovate Solutions: Foster an environment that promotes the sharing and implementation of innovative solutions to address the plastic crisis. In today’s world, innovation is essential for finding sustainable solutions to social problems. When you come across creative solutions, be inspired to implement them and become a social entrepreneur driving communities towards a cleaner and greener future. Additionally, actively engage with environmental think tanks and organizations like the ICE Institute, which host design challenges to crowdsource innovative, community-centered solutions. By participating in such challenges, you can embrace your creativity and contribute to implementing effective solutions. The recent hackathon for tackling plastic pollution in Mogadishu, organized by the ICE Institute, yielded more than five outstanding solutions, underscoring the brilliant potential of such initiatives.
4. Volunteer for Green clubs: Engage with volunteer organizations, student unions, or networks dedicated to climate and environmental issues. Participating in their activities can significantly amplify the impact of addressing small-scale environmental problems in your community. For example, organizations like SIMAD Green Club, a student-led volunteer network focused on environmental initiatives, undertake activities such as tree planting, awareness campaigns, and trash collection. Similarly, groups of volunteers in Mogadishu come together every Friday to clean Lido Beach, serving as a challenge to the behaviors of individuals and businesses in the city. By actively participating in these noble acts, you contribute meaningfully to the environmental cause.
5. Buy Green: Embrace the growing availability of environmentally friendly products and services, facilitating the transition towards a more sustainable lifestyle. In almost every aspect of our daily routine, there are fully available or upcoming alternatives that help curb plastic pollution and safeguard the environment. Opt for non-single-use plastic bottles and refill them instead of purchasing bottled water every day. When shopping, bring your own bag to avoid using plastic bags. Whenever possible, choose green alternatives over plastic products. Green Enterprises like Heybad in Mogadishu are offering green alternative products that curbs the plastic pollution. Supporting such green initiatives and noble causes that prioritize the well-being of people and the planet becomes paramount.
It is important to maintain hope and remember that progress is being made and momentum is building in the fight against plastic pollution. Each person’s actions, regardless of their scale, matter. By finding your role, establishing green routines and habits, and taking action, you contribute to the collective effort of beating the plastic crisis.
