22.5 tons of trash collected on the Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands comprise four islands; Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca & Formentera. This pristine gem in the Mediterranean Sea, have recently taken a bold step in preserving their natural beauty and marine ecosystems. During the month of August, the coastal cleaning service in the Balearic Islands successfully removed a staggering 8,215 kilograms (or approximately 8.2 tons) of waste from the coastlines. This remarkable effort is part of an ambitious cleaning campaign conducted by the Department of the Sea and the Water Cycle, which has, thus far, eliminated over 22.5 tons of trash throughout the summer season.

10 dedicated boats for Mallorca

From June to the end of September, a fleet of 22 ships has been mobilised for this critical mission of cleansing the islands' pristine beaches. Mallorca leads the charge with 10 dedicated boats, while Menorca and Ibiza each contribute five, and Formentera joins the effort with two vessels, all working tirelessly to rid the shores of harmful debris.

Rescuing the coastlines

The results have been nothing short of astonishing, as these dedicated teams of mariners and volunteers have undertaken an extraordinary endeavour. Among their many achievements, on Mallorca, they successfully removed remnants of a sunken boat and a damaged rubber boat. In Ibiza, several boat cushions were gathered, while on Formentera, they dealt with the remnants of a burnt boat.

Beyond the remarkable quantity of waste collected, it is equally important to note the composition of this debris. Plastic, one of the most insidious and pervasive pollutants in our oceans, constituted a substantial portion of the trash, accounting for a concerning 43.40 percent of the total waste. This underscores the global issue of plastic pollution and the critical need for proactive measures to mitigate its impact. Additionally, wood comprised 37.34 percent of the collected waste, highlighting the importance of addressing marine debris from various sources. Dead vegetation accounted for 8.37 percent, further emphasising the diverse nature of the problem.

The efforts undertaken in the Balearic Islands to combat coastal pollution are not only impressive but also critical for the preservation of the islands' natural beauty and the health of its marine ecosystems. These ongoing initiatives reflect the commitment of the local authorities, environmental organisations, and dedicated individuals to safeguard these precious landscapes for generations to come.