BAMFIELD – BC New Democrat MLA Josie Osborne says more people will benefit from cleaner coastlines free of marine debris and plastic pollution in the mid-Island and Pacific Rim region, thanks to funding from the BC NDP government.

“Living in the Pacific Rim region, we know how important it is to steward and care for our coasts and waters,” said Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim. “The Emerald Sea Protection Society is doing important work in our region, and this funding will help them continue to protect the seas, shores, and coasts we know and love.”

Over $8 million in funding will be awarded to 17 projects in partnership with local communities and coastal First Nations to clean up marine debris and derelict vessels along B.C.’s coastlines. Mid Island – Pacific Rim will benefit from $318,000 in funding for the Emerald Sea Protection Society.

The Clean Coast Clean Waters (CCCW) initiative partners with organizations to clean B.C.’s coastline. To date, projects funded through this program have removed 215 derelict vessels and cleaned up over 2,100 tonnes of marine debris from more than 6,400 kilometres of shoreline, while creating or maintaining more than 2,400 well-paying jobs.

The BC New Democrat government is committed to developing a strong circular economy. Of the marine debris and plastics collected through work funded by this Initiative, 65% has been recycled.

With this funding to the Clean Coast, Clean Waters Initiative, more people in coastal communities, especially First Nations communities, will have jobs that protect the environment. The coast will be safer for marine life with less waste, and with more materials recycled, and the B.C. sharing economy will continue to grow.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/31480