Author: AIVP
Source: Port of Houston
On sale date: Tuesday, 18 September 2007
Type of document: News
Topic: 7.05 - environmental management, 7.04 - nature area
Original language: English
Location: America : United States : Houston
Language: English, French, Spanish

In the context of their Clean & Green programme, the Port of Houston officially launched on the 4th September 2007, a new phase, the objective of which is to clean up and restore Buffalo Bayou and the navigable waters. Other than the intended interest for the users, the interest of the programme also lies in the partnership that associates private stakeholders such as Shell Oil Company.

Five days a week, a land-based crew will collect litter and debris fromthe banks of the waterway, while a water-based crew will work from a skimmer boat to clean storm drains, banks and other natural collection areas. The program aims to collect more than 10 cubic yards of debris a day over the next year -- enough to fill 83 garbage trucks. The result:
a clean and pristine waterway for the community to enjoy.

The Houston area storm water drainage system carries street water and debris to curb catch basins that route the runoff through an underground system, which directly empties into the city's bayous. All discarded soda cans, plastic bags, Styrofoam cups and other litter from the streets enter into this drainage system. After a downpour, a tidal wave of trash flows towards the Port of Houston, and ultimately Galveston Bay, causing severe environmental problems. As the water level recedes to normal in the bayou, trash is left in the water, along the bayou's banks, and hanging from trees and other vegetation. This recurring litter negatively impacts the environment, neighboring communities and the city's overall image.

Phase one of the Clean & Green program will focus on restoring a seven-mile area along Buffalo Bayou from Shepherd Drive to the Turning Basin, and the Turning Basin through the Houston Ship Channel to the Highway 610 bridge.

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