NHCS announces its 24th Annual Coastal Cleanup

(PRESS RELEAESE) CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS – The Nevis Historical and Conservation Society (NHCS) announces its annual Nevis Coastal Cleanup. The island-wide volunteer activities commence Saturday, September 24th, from 7:00 a.m. to noon at various locations throughout the island. Volunteers will clean the debris from wide stretches of our shorelines, borders and other popular areas in an effort to reduce significant debris from entering our oceans.

The annual International Coastal Clean-up has been in existence for 31 years, however, Nevis is currently in its 24th year of participation in this significant event. The Nevis Coastal Clean-up is Nevis’ main contribution to the International Coastal Clean-up.

This event is the world’s largest single day volunteer effort to clean up the beaches and waterways on the island. The International Coastal Clean-up movement aims to achieve a vision of ‘Trash Free Seas’ and is organized by The Ocean Conservancy (www.oceanconservancy.org).

During 2015 hundreds of local volunteers in St. Kitts and Nevis participated and collected over 3,300 pounds of litter. Volunteers covered 10 miles and collected approximately 21,000 items. In addition to this debris collection, data is collected on the nature and source of the trash.

Ocean Conservancy uses that information to produce an annual snapshot of the problem of marine debris.

The annual Nevis Coastal Cleanup is an excellent opportunity for all residents to join thousands of people worldwide to volunteer and take part in a worthwhile marine stewardship event. As we also celebrate our nation’s Independence this September; let us use this opportunity to highlight the significant role the ocean plays in the health of the environment, the economy and livelihoods.

Everyone has a vital role that they can play in helping to keep Nevis clean, just by spending a few hours removing trash and debris from our beaches and communities.