Don't rubbish the environment

From the hinterland through to the beaches, the Clarence Valley is renowned for its natural beauty. It is an environment that provides us with a charming lifestyle. It is an environment that is admired, and oftentimes envied, by visitors. It is home to a diverse range of native animals.

It is vital that we care for what we have, and don't risk losing it, as has happened in other places. Throughout the world, areas that were once pristine are now overwhelmed by the rubbish in their environment - debris litters the roads and waterways; insidious chemicals hide in the soil and water.

We must ensure that does not happen here.

We must ensure that we do not see a re-occurrence of the tragic plight of this pelican on the Clarence River [© Gill Bennett].

What you can do:

Be mindful of your rubbish – don't leave it behind when you are out – don't let it escape with the wind.

Don't let chemicals get into gutters and drains – these all discharge into our waterways.

Participate in clean up programs.

Prevention is also better than cure – support programs such as the Yamba Chamber of Commerce project to eliminate plastic bags.

Do what you can to keep our environment clean – it is good for us and good for the wildlife.

Imelda Jennings Wildlife SOS

Guest Speak is a North Coast Voices segment allowing serious or satirical comment from NSW Northern Rivers residents. Email ncvguestpeak at live dot com dot au to submit comment for consideration.