At Traveling Socotra, we are committed to making a positive impact. To ensure tourism has the least negative effect on Socotra’s unique ecosystems, biodiversity and natural resources, we have launched a Plastic Collection Initiative. This project aims to raise awareness among the Socotra community about the harmful effects of plastics on the environment and take direct action to combat the existing pollution.
Another Campaign to Collect Plastic Waste in Detwah Marine Reserve and Qalansiyah Lagoon
On October 6, the Traveling Socotra team, led by Ali Yahya, organized a campaign to collect plastic waste in the Detwah Marine Reserve, located 60 km from the capital, Hadibo. Detwah Reserve is the only site in Yemen listed as a Ramsar Wetland Site. It is also one of the most important marine reserves on Socotra and a key eco-tourism destination, renowned for its stunning landscapes, white sandy beaches, and majestic blue lagoon at its center.
The cleanup team consisted of 15 volunteers from the agency, members of the local community in Qalansiyah, and two of our first travellers of the season from the US and UK. Together, they collected around 18 bags of plastic waste, weighing approximately 100 kilograms.
Types of Plastic Waste Collected
The team gathered various types of plastic waste, including bottles, plastic bags, containers, shoes made of plastic, and more. Notably, all the collected waste is recyclable. However, due to the absence of a dedicated recycling facility on Socotra, the team collaborated with a local merchant interested in selling and shipping the plastic to mainland Yemen, where it can be recycled.
Challenges During the Winter Rainy Season
The period from early October to the end of December marks the winter season on Socotra, bringing seasonal rains that cause rivers and streams to swell, carrying plastic waste from the highlands to the seas and lagoons. This natural runoff results in significant plastic pollution in marine reserves like Detwah Marine Reserve and Qalansiyah Lagoon, both of which are critical areas for Socotra’s unique ecosystems.
The timing of this campaign was crucial in helping to reduce the amount of plastic waste entering these reserves, which serve as vital nesting and breeding grounds for seabirds.
The Risks of Plastic Waste to Humans and Biodiversity in Detwah Reserve and Qalansiyah Lagoon
Plastic waste poses a severe threat to the rich biodiversity of Detwah Reserve and Qalansiyah Lagoon. It endangers the habitats of seabirds, seagrasses, turtles, marine shells, and various fish species found in these areas. Detwah and Qalansiyah Lagoon are also important nesting sites for several endemic bird species unique to Socotra.
Additionally, plastic waste can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, especially after heavy rains, leading to the spread of diseases and epidemics among Socotra’s local communities, particularly in Qalansiyah.
Looking Ahead: Our Commitment to Sustainability
At Traveling Socotra, we are dedicated to promoting eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism to ensure the island remains a pristine paradise for future generations. We recognize the potential threats of unsustainable tourism and are actively working to mitigate these impacts.
For every traveler booking with us, around 5-7 kg of plastic will be removed from the island. Help us reach our goal of removing 500 kg of plastic by the end of the year. Our team is committed to implementing numerous initiatives, including awareness-raising and plastic collection campaigns, in areas of environmental importance.
By choosing Traveling Socotra, you contribute to the preservation of this unique ecosystem and support local efforts to maintain a clean and sustainable environment. Join us in our mission to protect and sustain the extraordinary environment of Socotra, ensuring its natural beauty endures for future generations.
