A Plastic-negative IOI for a plastic-free Galapagos
Single-use plastics are an unfortunate common sight on Isabela beaches.
The problem
Members of our Sustainable Isabela Program conduct a coastal cleanup.
Plastic pollution is a major issue for ecosystems and communities around the world. Every year 100,000 marine animals are killed by plastic bag consumption. Plastic bags are used for an average of only 12 minutes yet unfortunately, they take at least 500 years to degrade into microplastics which continue to pollute the environment (Center for Biological Diversity). Even the remote islands of the Galapagos have not escaped the impacts of plastic pollution.
The solution
But there is good news! IOI’s Sustainable Isabela Program is working to reduce the amount of plastic bag waste in the Galapagos.
The women of our Sustainable Isabela Program lead community driven environmental initiatives like our urban gardening and coastal cleanups in their community. Their newest campaign aims to make Galapagos plastic-free by sewing reusable bags from gently used fabric in order to eliminate the use of plastic bags. Community members donate their used clothing to the group and the women use the old fabric to sew reusable bags to then give back to the community for free.
Sewing the reusable bags is a team effort.
After only a few months underway, the campaign has been a huge success. The homemade bags can be seen throughout the community and shoppers are using fewer plastic bags. Yet there is still more work to be done, which is where you come in!
How you can help
IOI helped start the campaign but in order to amplify this pilot from our focus group to the entire community, we need your help. We are fundraising $4,780 to expand the reusable bag project and to target other single use plastic consumption like straws, take-out containers, and bottles.
IOI and the families of the Sustainable Isabela Program are actively involved in outreach to the community through environmental education. We continue to work side-by-side with the families and community towards sustainable solutions for a greener Galapagos.
A few of the final products!
