The waste on the beaches of Pointe-Noire and along the entire Congolese coast is a recognised problem, as is the case on many other African and European coastlines. Precisely because of its global scope, it is a problem that is increasingly worrying. Every day, large quantities of waste – mostly plastic of all types – end up on the streets and beaches and in the oceans. This has a significant impact on the environment and poses a real danger to people's health. That is exactly why Eni Congo took action on the south coast of Pointe-Noire on 1 June, as part of an initiative involving 400 people, including Eni employees with their families and children who enthusiastically joined in. A significant result was achieved: a total of 1,200 kilogrammes of waste was collected from three kilometres of beach. Set up by the HSE division of Eni Congo, the initiative took place in collaboration with the CEC (Centrale Electrique du Congo) and the Enrico Mattei School.

Caring for the ecosystem

On the same day, the Renatura environmental association held a morning event to raise awareness among children and adults on the importance of correct waste separation and disposal to reduce the risk of sea pollution. The event was tied to Eni Congo's decision to carry out beach clean-up activities on an environmentally significant section of coast for sea turtle reproduction, who use the beaches to nest from June to September. There is growing awareness of the importance of these marine species and the main threats to their survival. Participants had the opportunity to interact and hold talks with representatives of local private companies involved in promoting the recovery and recycling of plastic packaging waste. Their enthusiastic contribution included information stands illustrating how their circular economy ideas work. As part of this, the pilot project for the treatment of drilling mud, sludge and paraffin through the landfarming bacteria technique was explained. This was an opportunity to share and spread ideas about recycling and separate waste collection culture outside the workplace, reflecting on the daily habits that can have an impact. Eni is promoting greater awareness on an everyday level, for a lower environmental impact. With a view to extracting value from the collected waste, two local companies will the recycle plastic waste free of charge.