1,000+ Volunteers Join Beach Clean-up To Support Turtle Nesting And Conservation

Over 1,000 passionate individuals rolled up their sleeves on Sunday for Nature Seekers’ annual beach clean-up at Matura. The event typically marks the beginning of the turtle nesting season and aims to accelerate action in promoting climate change awareness and conservation efforts According to the Chairman of Nature Seekers, Chelsea Harripaul, the event brought together participants from various environmental clubs and individuals dedicated to wildlife conservation. “So, our nesting season starts on the 1st of March and ends off at August, and it actually ensures that our beach and our nesting site is clear of all debris. We have a lot of trash coming down our rivers and onto our rivers and shores, and the participation here today is really significant to ensure that this space is just perfect for our nesting sea turtles.” Over the years, participation in this annual event has increased. Ms. Harripaul said this has been instrumental in driving efforts toward preparation for the season and beyond. “We have had loyal participation from the year we began. Of course, with awareness, word grows, and there’s more participation in that sense. Our nesting sites, we are able to clear it faster when we have more persons here. The beach and coastlines are ever-changing, but when we adapt to suit, and we have people involved, we ensure that things happen.” Already championing action through involvement in initiatives such as these and education, one participant coming out of the Green Generation Initiative Workshop shared what she had learned. “I have learnt that in many species of turtles that come here during the nesting season, for leatherback turtles and how pollution impacts them, and what we as young persons can do to help, such as the beach clean-ups. We can use that information to spread awareness to others, and we could take it back to our schools and our environmental clubs.” This clean-up not only assists with preparations for the turtle nesting season but also with overall conservation. “For me, it means cleaner oceans, it means healthier animals, and it means a safe aquatic environment. Not just for land animals but also for sea animals as well.” Ms. Harripaul described the high turnout of participants as a step towards championing involvement in the environment and accelerating climate action.