SVG Environment Fund leads second major coastal clean-up at Indian Bay

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Environment Fund (SVGEF) organized its second major clean-up at Indian Bay, as it continues its commitment to protecting Vincentian coastlines. This event, held ahead of International Coastal Clean-up Day on September 21, was part of SVGEF’s ongoing initiative to clear debris left in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, and tackle litter left by beach goers, the entity said in a release.

Building on the success of the first clean-up, this event expanded efforts to both land and sea, with 35 volunteers participating, including members of the SVG Coast Guard, Dive Antilles, Dive St. Vincent, and the local community. Indian Bay, located within the South Coast Marine Conservation Area, is a cherished local landmark where generations of Vincentians have learned to swim and spend time with their families, making its protection a priority. Underwater efforts were a significant focus, with 11 scuba divers and five free divers working diligently to remove debris from the sea floor.

During the clean-up, over 543 pounds of trash were collected, facilitated by the Central Water and Sewage Authority’s Solid Waste Management Unit (CWSA/SWMU), which provided a skip for proper disposal of non-recyclable items. Recyclables were processed by All Islands Recycling Inc. (AIR). Additionally, an estimated hundreds of pounds of wreckage were removed from the sea floor, including the hull of a 28-foot fishing boat retrieved from the beach one day prior to the clean-up.

Recognizing that clean-up events are just one part of the solution, SVGEF emphasises the importance of increasing public awareness about responsible waste disposal and the recycling services offered by All Islands Recycling. The organisation advocates for more trash and recycling bins at popular beaches like Indian Bay, and believes educating the public about these services—especially those that pay cash for recyclables—is essential to reducing future littering.

SVGEF has extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and partners who contributed to the clean-up. The organization said it is committed to continuing these efforts to ensure that Vincentian beaches remain clean and safe for both the environment and the community.