Australia's waterways face worsening pollution crisis

Crews in Australia have pulled an extraordinary 730 kilograms of waste from waterways following heavy rain and flooding. This clean-up took place around popular tourist spots on the Sunshine Coast. The local council reported that the waste was swept into rivers and creeks after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred caused substantial damage. The cleanup focused on areas near the river mouths, where workers collected a range of debris, including plastics, bottles, chairs, bins, tyres, and shopping trolleys. Council spokespersons highlighted their ongoing commitment to keeping waterways clean. The efforts to remove this waste continued, with more clean-up planned for the days ahead. Water pollution is becoming a serious crisis in Australia. It threatens public health, the environment, and native wildlife. Just last month, a volunteer group in New South Wales removed over 600 kilograms of waste from a river in one day. Similar efforts have been reported across the country, with rangers in remote areas requesting government help to tackle the problem. They reported large amounts of plastic litter accumulating at their locations, harming marine life. Conservationists warn that these incidents only show part of a much bigger issue. Recently, a platypus died after becoming entangled in fishing gear, which underscores the dangers pollution poses to wildlife. Wildlife advocates are urging people, especially anglers, to clean up after themselves to protect fragile ecosystems.