CapeNature and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning are calling on Western Cape communities, schools, businesses and visitors to join the annual #DontBeTrashy Drive from 1 to 30 September 2026.
The campaign aims to reduce waste and protect the province’s land, rivers, wetlands, estuaries and coastal areas from litter, illegal dumping and plastic pollution.
"The #DontBeTrashy Drive is about inspiring lasting behavioural change. Every item of waste that is reduced, reused or recycled is one less item that can pollute our land and marine-based environment. Protecting the Western Cape’s unique biodiversity begins with the small choices we make every day," said Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature.
Activities will include school outreach, clean-ups, waste education, social media campaigns and radio interviews.
The public is encouraged to reduce single-use plastics, dispose of waste responsibly, report illegal dumping and support local clean-up initiatives.
Schools, community groups, businesses and conservation partners are urged to get involved throughout September and adopt waste-wise practices year-round.
