CNH and CASE Construction Equipment have extended their global Beach Care Project to South Africa, marking the next chapter of an initiative dedicated to education, cleaning beaches and promoting ocean conservation. The project’s debut in Cape Town brought together children, educators, volunteers, and environmental organisations who have long been at the forefront of marine conservation, reaffirming a shared commitment to restoring and protecting the coastline.
The Beach Care Project is rooted in the belief that long-term stewardship begins with awareness. Ahead of the beach cleanup, students from Hendrik Louw Primary School and Dr Joubert Primary School took part in an immersive environmental programme led by specialists whose work has shaped conservation efforts across the region. Dr. Laura Pintore of WWF Italy delivered a scientific lesson on marine wildlife and plastic pollution, while additional sessions were facilitated by Anzio Abels from the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, Lisa Starr of the Helderberg Oceans Awareness Movement, and Miss Earth South Africa founder Catherine Constantinides. Together, they helped the children explore the connections between human behaviour, ocean health, and the responsibility each individual carries.
A press briefing at the Italian Consulate in Cape Town’s historic Club building further underscored the collaborative spirit behind the project. Representatives of the Consulate welcomed the initiative among the collective efforts already underway to safeguard coastal ecosystems. CNH’s Head of Sustainability, Daniela Ropolo, outlined the company’s sustainability pillars and long-term vision, while CASE South Africa General Manager Johan Joubert highlighted CASE’s commitment to sustainability and expressed pride in contributing to the environmental education efforts already established by partner organisations along the coast. Dr. Pintore and Constantinides also shared reflections on advocacy, education, and the importance of empowering young people to become custodians of the natural world.
Safety and community support formed an essential part of the day’s activities. Strand Security, the Gordon’s Bay Neighbourhood Watch, and local police ensured a secure environment for learners and facilitators, while the National Sea Rescue Institute provided a water-safety briefing. Gordon’s Bay Med was on hand to offer medical support if required.
With the educational sessions complete, attention turned to Strand Main Beach for the cleanup effort. Learners from Hendrik Louw Primary School and Die Straat Se Kind NPO received certificates titled Research for the Day South Africa Cape Town, signed by all collaborators, recognising their participation and curiosity. A lively appearance by a Jack Sparrow character added excitement to the morning, while CASE’s TLB 695SV assisted in collecting heavier rubble from the shoreline. Together, participants removed 251 kilograms of waste, including PET, poly materials, glass, light steel, and cans. Waste management partner Yellow Bees Skips handled removal, and Plastics SA supplied the distinctive yellow collection bags.
To spark creativity and reflection, a mermaid sculpture crafted from microplastics –bottle tops, straws, and discarded bags – was displayed on the beach, offering a striking visual reminder of the impact of pollution on marine ecosystems. As the activities drew to a close, every learner received sunflower seeds, a symbolic gesture encouraging them to be environmental change agents in their own communities.
The launch of the CNH Beach Care Project in South Africa was made possible through the dedicated efforts of local organisations and individuals whose daily work protects the coastline and educates the next generation. CNH and CASE Construction Equipment expressed deep gratitude to all partners for their leadership, expertise, and collaboration.
As the learners returned home, the message shared throughout the day remained clear: the work starts now. By acting as environmental change agents, setting examples for others, and making responsible choices about waste, young people can help ensure that South Africa’s oceans remain vibrant and life-giving for generations to come.