There is no stopping volunteers of Doha Environmental Actions Project (Deap Qatar) from holding a series of beach cleanup drives amid the hot and humid weather.
The group restarted its weekly activities early this month after a short break in July, and is now set to organise a family and kids-friendly activity at the Al Zubarah Unesco World Heritage Site on August 27.
Deap Qatar, in collaboration with Qatar Museums’ (QM) Cultural Heritage Division, as well as with the Italian and British embassies in Qatar, the Unesco Office for the GCC Countries and Yemen, and in partnership with the Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar, also held similar activities at Al Zubarah in 2020 and in March this year.
It is learnt that these joint efforts, which form part of the Keep Qatar Clean campaign launched by QM Chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, contributed significantly in protecting Qatar’s marine life and natural resources.
According to Deap Qatar, organising beach cleanup drives also underlines the importance of raising public awareness on the dangers caused by plastic pollution and its negative impact on the environment and wildlife.
The group has inspired many residents, including families and children, to take action and participate regularly in its environmental activities at various locations across the country.
Due to the current Covid-19 situation, volunteers are required to adhere to restrictions on site such as wearing face masks, showing of green health code on their Ehteraz app, and keeping a distance from others.
Apart from bringing their own gloves, participants are also advised to dress properly (shoulders covered and no small shorts), use sun protection, and to bring their own food and drinks.  
Some 25 volunteers took part in a beach cleanup activity in northern Ghariyah beach recently, collecting 100 kilos of trash while 22 volunteers were able to collect 40 kilos at Al Thakira in Al Khor, also this month. A similar drive was also held at Salwa beach with 12 volunteers collecting 100 kilos of trash.
Many residents lauded the efforts of Deap Qatar in fighting plastic pollution, in educating the public and spreading awareness, but criticised those who “have no respect of their surroundings”.
Deap Qatar urged all sectors of the society to do their part as everyone plays “a different role in the fight against plastic pollution, and protecting our oceans.”
 
 
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