Dear Friends,
OVERVIEW
Needles in the Flow: Unseen Hazards Lurking in Our Waterways
While cleaning up our waterways as part of our regular schedule, a concerning amount of needles have been found, presenting major risks to both health and the environment. Improperly discarded needles can pollute the water and pose a risk to public health by potentially transmitting bloodborne diseases such as hepatitis and HIV through accidental contact. Aquatic animals are also at risk, as they may unknowingly consume these harmful substances, causing harm inside their bodies. The existence of needles in the surroundings emphasises the immediate necessity for proper disposal methods and increased understanding to safeguard both individuals, ecosystems, and our nation.
Summary of activities conducted over this week
In summary, the following activities were done for this week:
- We conducted 8 CSR and 2 VIA programmes which were attended by 282 participants for CSR and 140 participants for VIA involved respectively, and together they collected a total of 659 kg of litter.
- A total of 56 members were involved in CSR/VIA programmes and talks; another 56 members turned up for patrols, administration, housekeeping duties and training.
- The total trash collected by patrol groups from members was 108 kg.
- Boat Patrol. A total of 2 Boat patrols were carried out; 2 at Marina.
- Bike Patrol. A total of 3 Bike patrols were carried out; 2 at Marina and 1 at JLG.
- Pedal boat Patrol. 1 at Marina.
- Kayak Patrol. 1 kayak patrol at JLG.
- Housekeeping and Maintenance. 1 member did maintenance at Punggol
- JLG leaders conducted a recce of newly opened Chinese and Japanese Garden, mainly to test run whether feasible for our patrols to cover these areas as generally access only by Foot Patrol. Recommendation to follow.
ACTIVITIES AND REPORT
1. Educational Programmes
2. Volunteer Patrols & Activities
a. Marina
b. Punggol
c. Lakeside
d. Pang Sua Pond
| No patrol |
e. Yishun Pond Patrol
| No patrol |