This morning, we met by the river, not just to clean, but to understand.
Together with students from the Rotaract Club of The University of Hong Kong , we spent a few hot and humid hours clearing out waste from a stretch of riverbank. For some, it was their first time doing this kind of clean-up in Malaysia’s heat, and it wasn’t easy. A few felt unwell, but everyone contributed in their own way, and we’re grateful.
Here’s what we found and removed from the river:
23.91 kg of plastic
21.24 kg of mixed waste
3.94 kg of fabric
4.3 kg of glass
0.9 kg of metal
0.03 kg of e-waste
1.9 kg of construction debris
And… a 10 kg Chinese deity statue — respectfully removed and set aside
Plus a single used diaper (we decided not to weigh that one
)
We also tested the water: Ammonia: 4
Nitrate: 5
Nitrite: 0
pH: 6.9
Every river has its own story, and today, this one reminded us how waste tells more than just an environmental tale. It speaks of habits, of disconnection, and sometimes, of reverence lost or misplaced.
Thank you to the Rotaract Club team for showing up with curiosity, kindness, and willingness, even in the heat. We hope this short encounter with our river stays with you for a long time.
Source: Information obtained from Reimagine Plastic