Local Hero: Gary Joliffe, Till the Coast is Clear
We’re excited to shine a spotlight on some of the amazing people working tirelessly to protect and restore nature in Devon.
Over the coming months, we plan to feature a selection of the local heroes that DEF has supported to help make their grassroots projects possible.
Our first local hero is Gary Joliffe, Director of Till the Coast is Clear, we interviewed him about his project, passion and work with DEF below. You can also watch a short clip about his work here.
One of our key funding partners, Rockfish sustainable seafood restaurants, have enabled our support of Gary’s amazing work, getting the community involved in adventure beach cleans, in hard-to-reach places along the beautiful coast of South Devon. We are super grateful for their support!
Can you tell us about Till the Coast is Clear?
Till the Coast is Clear is a Community Interest Company striving to make the world a better place, one piece of plastic and one happy soul at a time. We regenerate places and people by clearing inaccessible shorelines of plastic pollution using special recyclable boats and a fleet of kayaks made from recycled fishing nets, crewed by volunteers, from all walks of life.
What inspired you to do what you do?
For me, action is the only way to address feeling helpless and overwhelmed by the ecological & climate crisis. It is about taking responsibility and getting hands on with the issues.
How has DEF helped you?
Aside from the invaluable financial assistance, DEF have been hugely inspiring in bringing together so many passionate people striving to make a positive contribution and live conscious, worthwhile lives. It is also proves that businesses with the right ethos and motivations, can be an unstoppable force for good.
What is the biggest challenge you face?
Time is the ultimate commodity and I would love some more please 🙂 We are constantly challenged by the weather and conditions, we have to plan but need to be flexible everyday and go with what nature is doing, I love that, it puts us in our place and reminds us of our roll in the circular natural systems that govern everything.
A quote from Gary:
It’s not the days in your life that matter, it’s the life in your days! Do what you love, love what you do and the rest will follow, naturally…
We couldn’t agree more, Gary. It is such an honour to work with people like you and see the impact of your hard work and commitment. We are so grateful for all you do to help nature in Devon!
