Inter-State Rivers, Seas Plastic Cleanup, Stable Balkan
© Royal_Albanian_Foundation
The Royal Albanian Foundation (RAF) has carried out an ambitious project to raise awareness of plastic pollution and organize clean-ups with the active involvement of young people and students from the Western Balkans.
Main results:
- Mobilization of young people and students: Workshops, cultural and sporting activities, and photo exhibitions were organized in several universities (Tirana, Tetovo, Mitrovica) to raise awareness of plastic pollution.
- Clean-up of rivers: Numerous beaches and riverbanks, including Lake Skodra and the Buna River, were cleaned up with the strong participation of students and local residents.
- Involvement of institutions: Collaboration with municipalities, tour operators and governments, resulting in the creation of a Plastic-Free West Balkan Rivers Day, set for July 1.
- Engagement of universities: An inter-university alliance against plastic pollution has been created with the appointment of spokespersons in each university and the organization of meetings with governments.
- Legislative impact: RAF’s awareness-raising work contributed to the adoption of the law banning plastic bags in Albania in May 2020.