Every minute, a truckload of plastic waste ends up in our oceans.
This alarming reality became a personal mission for a team of Bucher + Suter employees and colleagues from our sister companies in the Noser Group on October 6th, 2024, when we took part in a beach clean-up at Corbières beach, Marseille. Organized as part of our b+s PLUS program and our commitment to Pledge 1%, this event aimed, in some small way, to raise awareness and take direct action against ocean pollution.
Team building for a cleaner planet
Our group of 50 volunteers set out early despite the overcast and damp weather. Equipped with gloves, sorting bags, and tongs, we worked in little teams to form a “human barrier” between land and sea, preventing waste from drifting into the Mediterranean. The goals were simple: to make a small but tangible difference in protecting our environment and to learn about the impact of everyday waste on our planet.
A collaboration with 1 Déchet Par Jour
The event was organized in conjunction with 1 Déchet Par Jour, a Marseille-local association dedicated to waste reduction and environmental education. We owe special thanks to:
- Jérôme, the association’s president, for coordinating the event.
- Naya, who led us as a tour guide and handled logistics as the association’s secretary.
- Jean-Baptiste, who took charge of waste characterization and helped us understand the types of waste we collected.
- Simon, who captured the day’s efforts on camera, ensuring our hard work was documented.
Results that speak volumes
In just a few hours, our team managed to collect and sort almost 58 kg of trash from the beach and nearby forest area. From plastic bottles to fishing nets, the range of waste we encountered was a sobering reminder of the challenges our environment face. All the waster we collected was sorted and properly disposed of in the Métropole’s waste bins, ensuring that nothing we gathered ended up back in nature.
A taste of Provence to wrap up the day
After a morning of hard work, our team of volunteers enjoyed a Provençal aperitif buffet. The spread included local treats like olive puff pastries, tapenade, peppers stuffed with cheese, grapes, and refreshing homemade fruit juice. For those wanting to savor a true taste of the region, there was even a splash of Pastis, a classic Marseille aperitif. It was a perfect way to end the day and celebrate our collective efforts.
Every effort counts
Our beach clean-up day in Marseille was more than just a team-building event; it was a reminder that everyone can contribute to protecting our environment, no matter how small the effort may seem. We hope that this experience has inspired everyone who participated to think differently about waste and to take action in their everyday lives.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, and to the team at 1 Déchet Par Jour.
Together, we can make a difference!
