Marine litter, originating from diverse land-based sources such as inadequate waste management, agriculture, and tourism activities, significantly impacts the Mediterranean Sea. This litter travels via rivers, winds, and tides, affecting beaches, the sea surface, the seafloor, and marine life. Studies in the Adriatic and Ionian Seas reveal that single-use plastics constitute around 49% of beach litter. The tourism sector is crucial in addressing marine plastic pollution in the Mediterranean.
In Southern Albania, festivals like Turtle Fest, held annually in Drimades since 2013, attract around 8,000 attendees and generate approximately 5.4 tons of plastic waste each year, mostly single-use plastics. With poor waste management, much of this waste deteriorates in the ecosystem. To mitigate this, the project will engage directly with festival organizers to reduce single-use plastics, starting with replacing plastic cups with biodegradable and reusable alternatives.
The initiative will include awareness campaigns targeting youth at Turtle Fest, aiming to make the campaign appealing and impactful. Additionally, a workshop for stakeholders will foster collaboration with local communities, private companies, and authorities, promoting sustainable practices.
