WEEKLY REPORT: 4 December 2023 - 10 December 2023

WWS Admin 2| 18/12/2023| Uncategorized

Dear Friends,

OVERVIEW

“Ignorance is Not Blissful: The Consequences”

Illegal fishing poses severe ecological and environmental consequences, including the entanglement of non-target species in fishing gear such as lines, nets, and traps. This unintended capture leads to bycatch and harm to marine life, as exemplified by instances like a monitor lizard found dead and entangled in fishing lines. Moreover, illegal fishing contributes to habitat destruction, resulting in the degradation of critical marine ecosystems. Economic losses, food insecurity, and the spread of invasive species further compound the negative impacts. Addressing this issue requires concerted efforts in law enforcement, international collaboration, sustainable fisheries management, and public awareness to promote responsible and legal fishing practices, ensuring the health and resilience of marine and freshwater ecosystems.

Furthermore, during this week, our surveillance efforts successfully identified a significant number of illegal activities, particularly in the area of public behaviour. Of notable concern was the prevalent violation of smoking regulations, with an overwhelming number of individuals engaging in smoking activities in designated non-smoking zones. This observation brings out a broader issue of public ignorance and a potential lack of education regarding established guidelines. It emphasises the need for comprehensive public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to inform and guide the general public, promoting a culture of compliance with regulations to ensure the well-being and harmony of our shared public spaces.

Summary of Activities conducted for the Week

In summary, the following activities were done for this week:

We conducted 2 CSR and 0 VIA programs which were attended by 64 participants, and together they collected a total of 143 kg of litter. It was a hectic week for us.
This week a total of 72 members were involved in CSR/VIA programs, talk, patrols, administration, housekeeping duties, and training. Two new CVL members did their OJT with our leaders this weekend.
The total trash collected by the patrol groups was 88 kg.
1. Boat Patrol. 3 boat patrols were carried out; 1 at Marina, 1 at Punggol, and 1 at Jurong Lakeside.
2. Bike Patrol. A total of 3 Bike patrols were carried out; 2 at Marina and 1 at Punggol.
3. Pedal boat Patrol. 2 Bike patrols were carried out; 2 at Marina.
4. Foot Patrol. No foot patrol was carried out.
5. Gardening. A team of 4 pax for gardening at Marina for both Sunday and Saturday.

Once again, we sincerely thank all members and volunteers, who came for patrol or for facilitating the CSR/VIA programs, for your time and dedication to the task. Without your support we would not have been able to achieve this. Special mention to the teachers of Pathlight who came down in strength to participate in our kayak cleanup programme. Three cheers to the teachers, students and our facilitators! Young and old, we all must care for our environment. Sustainability is the only way forward.