Great Plains Conservation Backs 4ocean Java at Sukosari Riverboom Cleanup

     The 4ocean Java Riverboom Team conducted a cleanup today at the Sukosari River, located only ten minutes from the 4ocean base. Heavy rainfall in the upstream area over the past few days caused the river’s flow to surge, pushing large amounts of debris toward the net system. By the time the team arrived, the riverboom net had accumulated a significant mass of waste that threatened to block the waterway. This cleanup was supported by Great Plains Conservation, whose partnership strengthens our ongoing response to waterway pollution across Java.

     Seeing the rapid buildup, the crew prepared their gear and headed out with urgency and focus. Upon reaching the site, the sky was already cloudy and shifting toward rain. The team moved quickly to begin the removal process. Midway through the work, rain began to fall, followed by wind strong enough to force the team to pause to avoid any potential safety issues. Once the conditions eased, they immediately resumed the cleanup, working in wet and slippery terrain to clear the waste trapped behind the net.

During today’s cleanup, the team found plastic bottles, snack wrappers, plastic bags, foam, mica, sandals, shoes, bags, cans, and other household waste that had traveled downstream during the recent storm. In total, the team collected 629.3 pounds of material across 16 sacks. The buildup revealed how quickly plastic and organic waste can accumulate after heavy rainfall, and how essential the riverboom net is in preventing this debris from continuing toward downstream communities.

For Saiful Kirom, daily exposure to the reality of river pollution fuels a deep sense of purpose. He shared that seeing the problem firsthand motivates the team to stay committed and never lose spirit in their cleanup actions. He believes that each effort, no matter the conditions, contributes to meaningful change and helps create a cleaner and healthier environment for all living beings.