Stop the POP

Stop the POP will utilise a behaviour change approach to engage all levels of the community toward reducing the amount of plastics entering the marine environment between Warrnambool and Port Fairy. "Initiatives to promote behaviour change are often most effective when they are carried out at the community level and involve direct contact with people."- Doug McKenzie-Mohr Ph.D. (2013). The project will deliver initiatives through a combination of: - identifying common types of plastic pollution and their potential source; - workshopping source reduction strategies with stakeholders; - developing and implementing communication initiatives and resources; and - monitoring change in attitude.

The Great South Coast is internationally recognised for its natural beauty and the fishing, surfing, swimming, walking and whale watching opportunities. Combined with local biodiversity, these values are now well recognised as being at risk from increasing plastic ocean pollution. Initiatives to reduce source and deposition will ensure long-term amenity and greater appreciation of natural, coastal values.
This project will also benefit the community through empowerment and a sense of control over a broader global crisis and it will also educate and inspire positive behaviour towards our environment. Behaviour change is the cornerstone of sustainability and long-term, regional prosperity.