“Plastic Odyssey” Stopover: A Call to Action Against Pollution

In a strong reminder of the fragility of island ecosystems, Thierry Hebraud, CEO of the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB), underscored the dire vulnerability of Mauritius to the insidious effects of plastic pollution. This urgent message resonated during the recent stopover of the laboratory ship, Plastic Odyssey, at the Caudan Arts Centre, where a conference convened a coalition of dedicated stakeholders to address the pressing issue of plastic waste.

From April to July, an oceanographic campaign is underway in the Indian Ocean, meticulously studying the impacts of plastic pollution, raising public awareness, and advocating for tangible waste management solutions.

This initiative forms part of the Indian Ocean Plastic Expedition (ExPLOI), spearheaded by the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) with the backing of the French Development Agency and the Global Environment Facility, alongside local partners such as the MCB and sponsors of Plastic Odyssey.

With a presence across several islands in the Indian Ocean, the MCB is acutely aware of the urgent need for action, informed by its close ties to the realities on the ground.

“Waste is accumulating, ecosystems are depleting, and the consequences are worsening,” lamented Hebraud.

He emphasised that addressing this crisis is paramount in confronting one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time.

“The MCB takes pride in partnering with this expedition, aligning with our mission of Success Beyond Numbers.

Through our initiative, Your Card For Change, launched in 2019, we have raised nearly Rs 15 million to fund biodiversity preservation projects in collaboration with NGOs and scientific institutions.

It is within this framework that we are committed to actively supporting the stopover of Plastic Odyssey in the Indian Ocean, proudly becoming the Platinum partner of this visionary initiative.”

Hebraud further articulated the unique plight of Mauritius as an island state, particularly susceptible to the ramifications of plastic pollution.

“Our already fragile marine biodiversity plays a vital role in our economy, food security, and cultural identity.

Preserving our lagoons, reefs, and endemic species is also about safeguarding the future of our territories.”

He asserted that this stopover transcends mere logistics; it serves as a catalyst for awakening consciousness and fostering sustainable, locally adapted solutions.

Onboard Plastic Odyssey, researchers are diligently investigating the nature of plastic pollution: the types of waste, their origins, affected areas, and contributing factors such as population density and ocean currents.

They are also examining whether these plastics carry harmful microbes. As part of this programme, the ship will dock at various IOC ports, including Réunion, Mauritius, Seychelles, Comoros, and Madagascar, remaining in Mauritius until 25 April before heading to Madagascar.

During this period, a series of conferences, roundtable discussions, and documentary screenings will facilitate dialogue among scientists, businesses, policymakers, and citizens.

For Rajesh Bhagwan, the Minister of Environment, the time for concrete action to eliminate plastic is now.

He highlighted that the majority of plastic waste in Mauritius originates from food packaging and bottles, predominantly imported.

He stressed that pollution is a collective concern, and that investing in sustainable alternatives, rethinking production chains, and reducing plastic footprints at the source are both feasible and essential.

The ministry is currently working on new measures, while Mauritius actively participates in negotiations for an ambitious international treaty expected to be finalised by August.

As the Plastic Odyssey sails through the Indian Ocean, it beckons us all to reflect on our role in combating plastic pollution and to galvanise our efforts towards a sustainable future.

Source: l’Express