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"The war against pollution will not be won if communities and private companies do not play a meaningful role in protecting the environment."

This was the message conveyed by KwaZulu-Natal Legislature Speaker Ms Nontembeko Boyce today after she led a highly successful clean up campaign of Durban's Blue Lagoon beach.

Among those who took part in the campaign were members of the legislature, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Thomas Kaunda, Councillors, legislature employees and eThekwini staff.

Ms Boyce described the programme as a resounding success, adding that environmental protection was everyone's responsibility.

"I am grateful for the enthusiasm shown by everyone who participated in the clean up campaign today as it shows a genuine concern for the environment.

The Speaker was highly critical of the actions of litter bugs who continued to wantonly abuse the environment.

"Quite worryingly, the bulk of the waste collected today consisted of plastic materials such as bottles which is not biodegradable thereby posing a direct threat to marine life.

Our communities need to learn about the detrimental effects of not properly disposing off waste. 

Plastic remains one of the biggest threats to our ecologically sensitive water streams."

The Speaker added that private companies needed to take an active lead, through their corporate social initiatives, and lead campaigns that do not only teach communities about the dangers of pollution but also actively empower them through setting up recycling centers in townships.

"What the legislature and the city did today was highly commendable but it is just a drop in the ocean. We need more clean up campaigns which should be led by the private sector,"she added.

Mayor Kaunda was full of praise for the clean up campaign, adding that it had taken place during a crucial time when the city was preparing for an influx of visitors during the festive season.

"Our Municipality is working hard to ensure that our beaches are clean. We encourage our residenta to prevent pollution."