“The marine debris coastal clean-up has not ceased,” said Blekuu Sbal, Council of Chiefs’ grant coordinator. “People are now more aware of debris floating in our waters and are more inclined to pick them up for proper disposal.”
According to Sbal, despite the efforts of the residents of the varying states, debris still finds its way into coastal waters and mangrove areas.“There are still those among us,” he said, “who have not the slightest idea about the effects of human-created waste has on Palau’s marine life.”In an attempt to raise more awareness about the effects of marine debris and to entice residents and visitors to Palau to continue to “take an active role in reducing the amount of marine debris in Palau, the Council of Chiefs, in association with National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, is sponsoring a youth –18 and under – poster drawing contest as part of its on-going marine debris campaign.According to Sbal, the drawings should reflect this theme, “ Marine Debris: The Cause and Effect – Do Ngikiid a Debed.” Further, each drawing should illustrate the process through which human created things become marine debris, show the effects of the debris to the environment, and detail what is lost if not action is taken to address the debris.Moreover, Sbal added, interested participants should submit their drawings to the Office of the Council of Chiefs no late than October 10.“Prizes will be awarded to the top three posters,” Sbal said. “The winning poster will be duplicated and used in the Council of Chiefs’ Marine Debris Campaign.”For further details about the poster contest, interested individuals are asked contact the Office of the Council of Chiefs at 488-3350.
