Art and Litter Traps Transform Jukskei River, Combating Pollution and Floods
The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) 2024 Assessment has called for 'transformative change' to halt ecological degradation. The Art and Litter Traps Project in Johannesburg's Jukskei River is embracing this by integrating indigenous knowledge, local storytelling, and participatory design. Led by artist and environmental scientist Hannelie Coetzee, the project has installed five new litter traps, creating community hubs and mitigating flood risks.
The Jukskei River, one of the biggest waterways in Johannesburg's 6 million population, has long struggled with flooding, pollution, and invasive species. The Art and Litter Trap Project is combating these issues with vandal-resistant nets that catch solid waste and debris. These traps, woven by hand in macrame and crocheting styles, can remove up to 150 kilograms of debris each. The project's leaders, Karel Nel and Amy Luers, are exploring the feasibility of rehabilitating the riverbanks, further activating the space through active citizenry.
The traps double as art installations, telling stories inspired by Alexandra's nature and wildlife. They are made from repurposed waste, with some even crafted from materials found in the river like fiber optic cables and bathtubs. The Alexandra Water Warriors collectively remove up to 750 kilograms of waste daily from the traps, reducing pollution and flood risk. The project fosters a 'connective aesthetic' where art, ecology, and public life intersect for collective benefit.
The Art and Litter Trap Project is transforming the Jukskei River, creating community hubs and mitigating flood risks through innovative design and repurposed waste. By integrating indigenous knowledge and local storytelling, the project is shifting community perceptions of waste and activating the riverbanks for the benefit of all. The project's success highlights the potential for transformative change in ecological degradation, as called for by the IPBES 2024 Assessment.
