By Buertey Francis BORYOR & Evelyn ARTHUR
Korean firms operating in Ghana, alongside the Embassy of the Republic of Korea and the environmental organization Plastic Punch, conducted an extensive cleanup initiative at the RMU Beach located in Nungua, Accra.
The gathering, which took place prior to World Ocean Day, assembled volunteers to collect trash along the shoreline and increase public understanding of plastic contamination.
The cleanup included several Korean companies like AFKO Fisheries Co. Ltd., KH Medical Africa Centre, KOLON Global Corporation, Korea House Ninano, Koreana Bus Co. Ltd., and SSK Marine Co. Ltd.
The embassy staff from South Korea, headed by Ambassador Park Kyongsig, took part alongside delegates from various governmental organizations such as KOICA, KOFIH, KOPIA, KEITI, and the Korea Eximbank.
The leader of the Korean community in Ghana, Mr. Lee Young Gyu, also participated in the initiative.
At the event, Ambassador Park stated that the cleanup underscores his nation's dedication to achieving Ghana's environmental objectives. He emphasized that this initiative enhances bilateral ties between Ghana and Korea and demonstrates the role of Korean enterprises in promoting sustainable growth within the region.
"The launch of this program is an integral component of our company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and constructing a sustainable, pristine tomorrow for everyone," stated the Ambassador.
Mr. Chun Soon Chul, the Managing Director of AFKO Fisheries Co. Ltd., represented Korea’s business sector. He highlighted that their involvement demonstrates how companies can transcend mere profitability to contribute to social and environmental initiatives.
"We think genuine success involves environmental stewardship and community collaboration. This cleanup initiative is just one of numerous efforts we aim to undertake to support Ghana's development," he stated.
Mr. Lee Young Gyu, who leads the Korean community, mentioned that Korean businesses have generated employment opportunities and contributed positively to Ghana’s economy. He further stated, "As we strengthen our bond with the people of Ghana, environmental protection has become one of our key focuses."
Plastic Punch brings a scientific element
The cleanup operation was orchestrated by the technical proficiency of Plastic Punch, spearheaded by its leader, Mr. Richmond Kennedy Quarcoo. According to him, this initiative wasn’t solely focused on clearing debris from the shoreline; it also aimed at gathering information to guide governmental policies.
We've developed an approach known as 'citizen science.' By the end of our time at the beach today, we aim to address two crucial questions: what is causing pollution and who is responsible for it?
"We aren’t merely gathering refuse; we’re amassing valuable information to aid in making choices such as prohibiting detrimental plastics and ensuring manufacturers are accountable for the waste they generate," explained Mr. Quarcoo.
He pointed out that the gathered information will assist the nation in reporting on its SDG 14.1 metrics, with an emphasis on decreasing oceanic contamination.
“We expect to collect between 1.5 and 2.5 tonnes of marine debris by end of the exercise. The team is focusing not only on collecting the waste but also studying its recyclability, which can help strengthen local recycling systems. It is a knowledge-sharing and data-gathering process that helps us protect our planet and our ocean,” Mr. Quarcoo said.
He expressed his gratitude to the Korean collaborators for their backing and mentioned that the drill conveys a powerful statement leading up to the forthcoming United Nations Ocean Conference in France.
"This emphasizes international collaboration. There is just one ocean and one Earth, and we all share the responsibility to safeguard them," he stated.
He similarly motivated individuals to adopt small actions such as using reusable bags and bottles to minimize plastic consumption in their everyday routines.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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