International #EUBeachCleanup Action to Take Place at Issyk-Kul with EU Support for the First Time
In Kyrgyzstan, as in many other countries around the world, there is an acute problem of environmental pollution by plastic and other waste. According to existing estimates, by 2050 there could be more plastic in the sea than fish. Issyk-Kul is also polluted.
To address this issue, the European Union, the UN, and the Smurfs in the form of mascots are joining their efforts to clean beaches worldwide and inviting citizens from all countries to contribute. This action is being held for the second time globally. In 2018, over 70 such actions took place with the participation of nearly 3,000 people as part of the #EUBeachCleanup campaign from Ghana to Iceland and from the Dominican Republic to Fiji. This year, similar actions will take place in 75 countries around the world, including for the first time in Kyrgyzstan.
The event will take place on September 14 in the Issyk-Kul region (Bosteri village) with the participation of staff from the EU representation in Kyrgyzstan, the UN country office, and the embassies of Germany and the UK. Additionally, 150 local volunteers and a group of divers will join the international beach cleanup team at Issyk-Kul.
“We share a love for our planet, and we all bear responsibility for keeping it healthy—through cleanup and preventive measures. That’s why we decided to hold a cleanup at one of the beaches of Issyk-Kul. We are joining forces with our friends from the UN system in Kyrgyzstan, the embassies of Germany and the UK. We hope to show that we care about the problem of marine pollution and that we strive to address this issue in every possible way,” said Eduard Auer, head of the EU representation in the Kyrgyz Republic.
#EUBeachCleanUp will take place in Kyrgyzstan in partnership with local authorities and activists. The public fund "EcoDemi," known for its numerous cleanup actions and environmental protection efforts, has provided tremendous support in organizing the event.
Note:
The European Union is leading the global fight against marine pollution and has recently adopted legislation limiting the use of single-use plastic products, especially those that are most commonly found on beaches. Additionally, the legislation addresses lost fishing gear, which accounts for about 27% of all beach litter.
The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the foundation for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. They address global challenges we face, including issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, well-being, peace, and justice. SDG 14 sets targets for the sustainable use and conservation of the world's oceans.
The Smurfs, created by Peyo in 1958, are a universal symbol of optimism and friendship. The blue Smurfs live in harmony with nature and bring happiness to children and adults around the world. The Smurfs have become official partners of the #EUBeachCleanup campaign and the Sustainable Development Goals.