Over 1,000 pounds of garbage was collected during a coastal cleanup at Greathead Bay on Saturday, September 18.
The cleanup was organized by the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority in commemoration of International Coastal Cleanup Day, under the theme “Cleaner Coast, Healthier Ocean, Stronger Communities.”
Close to 200 volunteers participated in the initiative, including members of Greenhouse Lab SVG, Energized Earth SVG, Bishop College Kingstown, the SVG Guides and Brownies, JEMS and other community organizations and schools.
Among the waste collected were 184 pounds of plastic bottles, 810 pounds of vehicle parts, cardboard, rubber and clothing, 238 pounds of metal, 32 pounds of metal and glass, 42 pounds of glass, and 94 pounds of natural materials, including coconut shells and wood.
The cleanup formed part of ongoing efforts to reduce marine pollution, protect coastal ecosystems and encourage greater community participation in keeping the island's beaches clean.
Speaking during the cleanup, Communications and Education Officer with the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority, Twanique Barrow, said she was pleased to see a large number of young people participating in the exercise.
She is also urging members of the public to take greater responsibility for the proper disposal of garbage, noting that improperly discarded waste can negatively affect the marine ecosystem.
