Yamaha Motor Australia’s Corporate Branding and Marine Academy teams recently participated in a clean-up event organised by YMA’s Rightwaters partner Seabin™. The event was part of a Plastic-free July, a global movement to mobilise millions of people worldwide to be part of the solution to plastic pollution. The event also aligned with the Staff Environmental Protection Initiative recently launched by YMC.
The clean-up crew braved a brisk morning at Little Manly Beach on Sydney Harbour. Despite the biting wind, they joined an enthusiastic crowd of Seabin™ sponsors and staff to contribute to the cleanup and learn about the impact of microplastics on marine ecosystems.
The Microplastics Menace
Microplastics, tiny plastic fragments less than 5mm long, are a major environmental threat. These small particles originate from various sources, including industrial plastic nurdles used in manufacturing. It’s estimated that up to 51 trillion pieces of microplastic, weighing approximately 236,000 metric tons, contaminate the world’s oceans. These particles pollute natural ecosystems and pose severe risks to marine life and, potentially, human health. Emerging research has linked microplastic pollution to a range of neuro disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.
During the event, participants engaged in hands-on activities to clean up the beach and see first-hand the problems caused by plastics of all sizes. Pete Ceglinski, CEO & Co-Founder of Seabin™ said it was the most microplastic he had ever seen at Little Manly Beach.
Yamaha Seabin™ Partnership
Seabin™, supported by Yamaha Motor Australia through its Rightwaters initiative, focuses on removing and analysing marine litter, particularly microplastics. It provides the only global service for collecting and analysing microplastic data, essential for understanding the extent of microplastic pollution and developing strategies to mitigate it.
Yamaha Motor Australia’s support of Seabin™ underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability, promoting long-term sustainability, and the conservation of waterways and oceans. Yamaha Motor is dedicated to preserving natural resources, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy them.
Looking Ahead
Yamaha Motor Australia will continue to support environmental initiatives where a difference can be made.
For more information on Yamaha Motor’s Long Term Vision (LTV), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and its contributions to developing a sustainable society, visit the Acting Responsibly section of the Yamaha Motor Australia website.
