PTWC launches exclusive range of eco-friendly upcycled bags and backpacks

Protect the West Coast (PTWC) has added a range of eco-friendly bags and backpacks to its merchandise collection. Made from upcycled materials such as Bedouin tents, used sails and advertising banners, these unique, durable bags are available in a wide range of colours and styles that combine sustainability with functionality – and come with a lifetime warranty.

Trans Hex applies to mine 321 km2 of ocean and 80 km of the West Coast.

The public is encouraged to test PTWC’s new public participation portal Ripl by commenting on a double application by Trans Hex. The mining company has applied for a marine diamond mining right offshore of two eco-sensitive areas and a multi-commodity prospecting right in multiple concessions totalling 321km2 along a huge 80 km swath of the West Coast. The giant crawling machines they intend to employ potentially threaten fisheries, marine and coastal ecology and three marine heritage shipwreck sites.

Introducing Ripl: PTWC’s Revolutionary Digital Tool for Public Participation in Mining Applications

Protect the West Coast (PTWC) has launched Ripl, a revolutionary new digital platform designed to simplify and expand public participation in mining on South Africa’s West Coast. Developed in response to the outdated and often inaccessible Public Participation Process (PPP), Ripl empowers citizens to voice their concerns through a simple interface, ensuring that mining applications are scrutinised more effectively and the industry is held accountable.

Fish by The Sea reapplies to prospect for diamonds on critically biodiverse coast

Fish by the Sea has again applied to prospect on the beach for diamonds near Brand-se-baai, adjacent to an area designated as critically biodiverse. This application adds more potential for beach mining on the West Coast, which is already under severe pressure. The new application is a revised submission of the same area, replacing what was publicised by Protect the West Coast (PTWC) in July. Thanks to public input, the first application was deemed inadequate. The revised version is now open for public comment.

The Mines of Mordor: PTWC aerial photo team captures hidden destruction of West Coast

A media crew from Protect the West Coast recently teamed up with top marine conservation photographer and pilot Jean Tresfon to shoot stills and video footage of mining operations – and the damage they are wreaking – of the entire West Coast from the open cockpit of his gyrocopter, the first time such a project has ever been undertaken.