Shipwreck Cleanup Reveals Less Trash Than Expected
Divers from the Centro de Estudos de Arqueologia conducted a cleanup near the Pronto, a shipwreck off the coast of Pontinha that sank nearly a century ago. The operation recovered only a small amount of debris.
Fortunately, at the shipwreck, we did not find the amount of trash we were expecting, also due to previous actions we carried out.
The team included divers, a biologist, and an archaeologist to carefully plan the operation.
If we noticed that the trash was being used by animals as nesting sites, we would not remove it.
Some heavier objects, including tires, remained because they were difficult to lift.
New Recycling Machine Will Turn Collected Plastic into Everyday Items
The cleanup is part of a collaborative initiative that brings together multiple organizations from remote regions, to work on environmental projects such as reducing marine plastic waste.
We bought machines that reuse or recycle plastic collected from the sea.
We already spoke with the Marina Association, and we will place this machine at the service of the Marina, so that visitors and users can deposit collected plastic.
The machine grinds the plastic and creates resin, which can then be used to make new items for daily use at the marina.
Further Cleanups Planned in Funchal Bay
While the recycling machine is still in the testing phase, the Centro de Estudos de Arqueologia will continue organizing cleanup activities.
We will carry out underwater cleaning in front of Forte de Santiago because, based on our underwater surveys, this area has a significant amount of submerged trash. For some reason, dynamic currents cause the trash to accumulate there.
Currents in the area tend to concentrate debris, making it a key site for removal.
Combining Environmental Care with Heritage Preservation
The team also plans a cleanup near the Garajau Natural Park.
From the perspective of linking heritage and history, this area is important.
The actions will take place on September 26 and 27.
Facts on Plastic Pollution
Current Pollution: Around 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans every year.
Long Lifespan: Plastic can take hundreds of years to decompose, breaking into microplastics that harm marine life.
Future Growth: If current trends continue, the amount of plastic in oceans could triple by 2040, reaching over 250 million tonnes.
Source: RTP Makeira
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