Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 26 November 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# University of the Free State researchers say pollution of aquatic environments is a concern and poses a health risk to aquatic and terrestrial life. The researchers have conducted a study into the environmental presence of potential pathogenic yeasts in plastic pollution in freshwater sources in Bloemfontein. Professor Carolina Pohl-Albertyn says plastic pollutants can harbour biofilms containing various potential pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. She adds that these pollutants can flow along freshwater sources to different environments.

# The DA in Gauteng says a recent oversight inspection at the Jukskei River in Alexandra, has revealed that the river is contaminated with high levels of e-Coli, and raw sewerage is spilling into the river. This is a result of poorly maintained infrastructure. The DA’s Leanne de Jager says the river is at risk of flooding during the rainy seasons, putting the health and safety of residents living close to it at risk:

# And finally: United Nations secretary-general, António Guterres, is warning that the world is drowning in plastic pollution. The fifth round of negotiations on a legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution got underway in South Korea yesterday. Guterres says any deal must address the life cycle of plastics, tackling single-use and short-lived plastics, waste management, and measures to phase out plastic and promote alternative materials:

Stay tuned for more news………….