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Action for Ocean Wetlands and Rivers CVA Updates

Tackling Plastic Pollution Locally: SeaToSource – Peel-Harvey Catchment

Plastic pollution ranks amongst our era’s most pressing environmental crises. From our oceans to our streets, plastic waste is choking ecosystems, harming wildlife, and impacting communities. At Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA), we know that solving this problem requires more than just corporate or government action—it demands collective effort from every individual. That’s why CVA has launched the SeaToSource – Peel-Harvey Catchment project, in collaboration with the Alcoa Foundation, to empower local communities to make a tangible difference in reducing plastic pollution. 

The Importance of the SeaToSource Project 

The SeaToSource initiative is designed with the understanding that no single action can solve the plastic crisis. We need a community-centric movement to create lasting change. The SeaToSource – Peel-Havery Catchment project addresses plastic waste and other litter by focusing on both pollution sources and end points—such as local beaches—where it impacts ecosystems. 

By engaging the Peel-Harvey community directly, this project offers practical solutions to fight plastic pollution at the local level, creating a ripple effect that supports the broader Australian goal of eliminating plastic waste by 2040. 

CVA’s collaboration with the Alcoa Foundation provides the local community with essential resources, support, and platform needed to take meaningful action. Together, we’re equipping individuals with the tools to become key players in the solution. 

A Collaborative Approach to Sea the Change 

At its core, SeaToSource – Peel-Harvey Catchment thrives on collaboration. The project unites community members, schools, local groups, and volunteers to work together in tackling plastic pollution. Through litter surveys, waste audits, and educational programs, we’re empowering individuals to create real change in their communities. 

Here’s how we’ll do it: 

  • Litter Surveys & Waste Audits: We’ll conduct regular surveys and audits at local schools and homes to track plastic waste entering the environment. These insights will help us design targeted waste reduction strategies. 
  • Community Engagement & Education: Education is key to lasting change. We will host workshops, clean-up events, and educational sessions to engage and inspire action. These events will also generate valuable data about local plastic pollution impacts. 
  • Source Reduction: We’re identify and reduce waste at its source through collaboration, developing and implementing plans to decrease plastic use, particularly in schools and households. 

Project Goals 

The SeaToSource – Peel-Harvey Catchment project runs from January 2025 to December 2027. We’ve set these measurable goals for long-term impact: 

1. Litter Reduction: Complete 48 surveys by 2027 to demonstrate measurable reduction in plastic pollution across the Peel-Harvey Catchment area. 

2. Community Engagement: Engage 3,500 people in the project, through a mix of clean-ups, surveys, workshops, and large-scale events. 

3. Behavioural Change: Achieve a 60% rate of participants reporting improved waste management behaviours, proving our educational impact. 

4. Source Reduction: Deliver eight source reduction workshops in target areas, implementing interventions to reduce plastic waste. 

4. Waste Audits: Guide 100 people through waste audits to better understand plastic waste patterns in the waste stream. 

Why This Matters 

CVA’s CEO, Phil Harrison, says “with plastic pollution continuing to grow, we believe initiatives like SeaToSource – Peel-Harvey Catchment are vital. They create lasting impact by not just removing waste, but by also preventing it at the source. By equipping individuals and communities with the knowledge, tools, and support to change their waste habits, we’re building a stronger, more sustainable future for everyone.” 

“We hope that the work we’ll undertake in the Peel-Harvey Catchment can serve as a model for communities across Australia, showing that change is possible when we all take responsibility. With local action, we can reduce plastic pollution and create a cleaner, healthier environment—for today and for future generations.’ Harrison says.  

Join us in making a difference. Together, we can turn the tide on plastic pollution.