Lyne Morissette, a passionate marine biologist, took action to combat pollution in the St. Lawrence River by initiating a cleanup project aimed at removing tons of trash. What started with a modest goal of collecting 10 tonnes of trash has now expanded into a larger initiative known as Mission 1,000 tonnes.
This year, Morissette and a dedicated team of scientists, divers, and volunteers are embarking on a 16-day journey covering 2,000 kilometers along the river. Their mission involves collaborating with local volunteers and organizations to conduct shoreline cleanups as part of the extensive project, now renamed Mission 1,000 tonnes.
During the cleanup efforts, known as L’Expédition Saint-Laurent, the team will make stops in various regions, including Greater Montreal, Quebec City, Baie-Comeau, and the Innu community of Pessamit. Morissette expressed mixed feelings about the massive amount of trash they collect, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of their efforts.
As the scientific director of the expedition, Morissette emphasizes the importance of documenting the garbage collected to understand the impact of pollution on shorelines. Despite encountering discouraging sights reflecting global ecological challenges, Morissette finds hope in the dedication of volunteers who contribute their time to cleaning up the environment.
Through the Mission 1,000 tonnes initiative, nearly 750 tonnes of trash have been collected to date, bringing them closer to their ultimate goal. Morissette remains committed to the cause even beyond reaching the 1,000-tonne milestone, emphasizing the significance of ongoing efforts to preserve the environment.
