KUWAIT: The Kuwait Dive Team (KDT), affiliated with the Environmental Voluntary Foundation (EVF), took part in a large-scale cleanup of Al-Zour beaches, removing tons of plastic, wood waste, and discarded fishing nets from the seabed. Speaking to KUNA, KDT Chief Walid Al-Fadhel noted that the activity coincided with International Volunteer Day, observed annually on December 5. “Every contribution matters” is the theme of this year’s celebration, he said, emphasizing its role in promoting collective action. Established by the United Nations in 1985, the occasion honors volunteers and raises public awareness of their contributions to society.
Al-Fadhel highlighted the dangers of plastic pollution to marine ecosystems. Citing a UN report, he noted that millions of birds and around one million marine animals, including turtles, die each year due to plastic waste. He added that the team will continue its efforts, removing abandoned boats and fishing nets entangled with coral reefs, while launching additional campaigns to protect the environment. The Dive Team also recently set up a pavilion at the International Kuwait Book Fair, engaging the public in its environmental awareness initiatives. — KUNA
