Marine Debris
Marine debris and plastic pollution are ongoing challenges on Mabul Island. From hands-on beach and reef clean-ups to community-led solutions, SEAS works to prevent waste from entering the ocean and reduce its impact on marine life. Through a combination of regular clean-ups, data collection and an innovative local recycling project, we are developing practical, long-term approaches to tackling plastic pollution on the island.
Beach Cleans
Every Saturday at 4pm, beach cleans bring guests and staff together to protect Mabul’s shoreline. Beyond collecting rubbish, they open conversations about ocean plastics, local waste challenges, and how everyday choices can make a difference. These clean-ups are an easy, hands-on way for visitors to understand the issue and be part of the solution during their stay.
Plastic Project
In Semporna rubbish is either incinerated or sent to landfill. Instead of sending all the rubbish we collect back to Semporna, we try to upcycle where possible. We have produced upcycled shopping bags from t-shirts, toiletry/stationery holders and bins from plastic bottles and flower vases and drinking glasses from beer/wine bottles.
Reef Cleans
Reef cleans take place whenever conditions and schedules allow. Divers and staff work together to remove fishing lines, plastics and other debris from the reefs, always with care to avoid damaging corals. These efforts help keep the underwater environment safe for marine life while reinforcing responsible diving practices.
Reducing waste
A key focus is preventing waste from reaching the island in the first place. SEAS works closely with Scuba Junkie’s suppliers to minimise packaging and unnecessary materials, while also supporting staff to make low-waste choices in their daily routines. By reducing what arrives on Mabul, the team cuts down on what needs to be cleaned, managed, or removed from the island creating long-term, sustainable change.
Make an impact on marine debris
Our Sponsor a Reef or Beach Clean initiative allows visitors to directly support future clean-ups around Mabul. Donations help cover essential costs such as biodegradable bags, gloves, rakes and fuel for transporting collected waste back to the mainland.
In return, sponsors receive a digital certificate with details of when and where the clean-up took place, along with photos from the activity, showing the real impact of their support.
