If there is one goal that deserves to join forces, it is concern for the environment. On 22 March, International Water Day, the Marina Alta is launching its first joint project to protect something as important as its natural environment. This is the "The Sea Starts Here"" awareness campaign, involving 18 cities and all the Rotary Clubs in the region, in the hope of reducing the waste that ends up in the Mediterranean Sea.
The joint action ties in with the work of the Association of Public Water Suppliers (AEOPAS), which has been trying for some time to raise awareness among citizens that what happens where there are scuppers and sewers ultimately has an impact on the sea.
The idea came from the Rotary Club of Xàbia and was soon adopted by the other three clubs in the region: Benissa-Teulada, Calp and Dénia, as concern for the environment is one of Rotary International's main areas of interest.
The proposal has also been well received at institutional level, and not only in the coastal towns, showing that local bodies are increasingly aware of the importance of waste management in the canals, rivers, and ravines.
Alcalalí, Beniarbeig, Benidoleig, Benissa, Calp, Dénia, El Verger, Gata de Gorgos, Lliber, Ondara, Pedreguer, Pego, Poble Nou de Benitatxell, Teulada-Moraira, Xàbia, Xaló and the AEATIM of La Xara and Jesús Pobre have joined in. In other words, it will have a minimum reach of 165,366 inhabitants. It also has sponsors and collaborators such as AEOPAS, Amjasa, Club Náutico Jávea, La Marina de Denia, Sinma, Solgata, The Isbjorn Collective and Urbaser.
The campaign will take shape with the installation of panels and images near the scuppers in the areas with the most pedestrian traffic. The metal panels are shaped like puffer fish and were designed by artist Toni Marí. They are accompanied by a message in several languages: "Don't throw anything away, the sea starts here".
Other complementary actions include the release of an information video, the distribution of posters and the involvement of the educational community by promoting awareness-raising activities in schools and institutes.
This joint project will continue over time and remains open for more cities and municipalities to join, because the sea belongs to everyone.