Coastal Cleanups
Marine pollution is threatening the wellbeing of orcas and other marine life around the world, with plastic products and other human-induced waste being found in the stomachs of stranded cetaceans on a regular basis. Especially plastic bags blocking the digestive system and simulating the feeling of a full stomach (whereas the animal is actually slowly starving), are often thought to be the cause of death for whales and dolphins alike. Iceland is no exception to the rule, and any garbage making its way into the ocean has a direct impact on the wellbeing of the orcas. We, therefore, conduct regular coastal cleanups and encourage others to do so as well.
Cleanup at Mávahliðs Ríf, 06.05.2017
On the 6th of May, 2017, 11 persons cleaned 1 km of coastline. 71 kg of garbage were collected, of which 58 kg were plastic. We would like to thank the Láki Tours passengers from Germany and the United States, who helped us clean the beach spontaneously after their whale watching trip. Thank you also to Láki Tours, EarthCheck and Landvernd for the support.
Cleanup at Hraðikambur, 02.05.2018
On the 2nd of May, 2018, 6 persons cleaned 1 km of coastline. The 80 kg of garbage collected included 35 kg ropes and 27 kg plastic. Once again, the collected items were recorded and sorted for recycling. A big thank you to all participating Orca Guardians volunteers!
