World Cleanup Day
Join the movement: How to get involved
What if we treated our planet like our own home? Would we still toss litter on its streets as carelessly as we drop crumbs on our kitchen floor? Would we allow its oceans to become as cluttered and polluted as our neglected garages? Our planet is drowning in trash, and we’re the ones holding its head underwater. Every year, we generate over 2 billion tons of waste, with much of it ending up in our oceans and natural environment.
While we mindlessly consume and discard, our oceans choke on plastic, our dumpsites overflow, and our wildlife suffers the consequences of our negligence. Is this the home we want to leave for future generations? Or is it time we rolled up our sleeves and gave our planetary abode the deep clean it so desperately needs?
What is World Cleanup Day?
As we confront these uncomfortable realities, global citizens unite every year for World Cleanup Day - a worldwide initiative aimed at tackling the pressing issue of improper waste management, including its devastating impact on marine environments through coordinated action. The United Nations, on December 8, 2023, officially recognized September 20 as World Cleanup Day.
Why does World Cleanup Day Matter?
The main goal of this annual social action program is to raise awareness about the global waste problem and encourage people to take direct action to clean up their local environments. Beyond the immediate cleanup, the day aims to inspire long-term changes in waste management practices.
In a world grappling with environmental challenges, this global event has quickly become a pivotal moment in our shared fight against environmental pollution and degradation. It is more than just a date in the United Nations Calendar; it is a worldwide movement that unites millions of people across the globe for a common cause - a cleaner and healthier planet.
According to the Let's Do It World Organization’s 2023 Annual Reports, an astounding 19.1 million volunteers from 198 countries participated in the World Cleanup Day, collecting over 218,000 tonnes of waste. This year, it's your turn!
HOW TO GET INVOLVED?
Want to contribute to a cleaner environment? Here are ways to make a lasting impact:
1. Join a local cleanup: One of the easiest ways to participate is to join a local cleanup near you. By doing this, you'd be contributing to creating a positive change for our environment.
2. Organize your own clean-up: If there's no event around you, consider organizing one. Take the lead and rally your community!
Identify a beach or neighborhood that needs attention
Gather supplies (Trash bags, gloves, e.t.c.)
Recruit volunteers, through social media, community groups, and personal networks
You can as well partner with local businesses or organizations for support
Don't forget to register your event
3. Spread awareness on social media: Share information about World Cleanup Day on your social media platforms. Use official hashtags and encourage your followers to participate.
4. Reduce your waste and recycle: You can also start by making changes in your own life! Minimize waste production and properly sort recyclables. Go outdoors and pick up trash in your neighborhood.
Remember, every action counts.