PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Antigua – September 21, 2024 – In a powerful demonstration of environmental commitment, around forty dedicated Sandals Foundation ambassadors participated in the largest one-day volunteer event in the world, rallying together to remove approximately three hundred pounds of solid waste from the Mckinnons Pond mangrove swamp on International Coastal Cleanup Day.
This initiative not only highlighted the importance of coastal conservation but also showcased a collective effort to protect the island’s vital ecosystems. Volunteers, consisting of housekeeping staff, food and beverage personnel, watersports teams, and management from Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and Spa, donned gloves, collected debris, and meticulously documented their findings, underscoring the significance of preserving the island’s marine environment.
Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, emphasized that while waste removal is crucial, cultivating a culture of environmental stewardship holds even greater importance. She stated, “Through initiatives like these, we are developing ambassadors for the environment—educating schools and communities about reducing waste and understanding the vital role coastal ecosystems play.” This proactive approach not only engages local communities but also advocates for improved waste management
practices, aiming for sustained environmental change that ultimately protects the livelihoods intertwined with the natural resources.
Environmental Health and Safety Manager at Sandals Aliyah Ramdin, said, “the annual International Coastal Cleanup Day is more than just a one-day event; it is a critical element of the company’s enduring commitment to environmental sustainability. By participating in this global movement, we not only contribute to cleaner beaches but also foster a sense of teamwork and camaraderie among team members.”
The enthusiastic participation of the Sandals team showcases a unified front in the fight against pollution and environmental degradation. It symbolizes a commitment to preserving the beauty of our coastlines for future generations, while also encouraging other businesses and community members to get involved in similar initiatives.
Through events like these, General Manager David Latchimy believes the Sandals Foundation can continue inspire a larger movement towards sustainability and environmental consciousness. Annually, the Sandals Foundation has broadened its impact by mobilizing team members across all nine Caribbean islands where it operates, implementing similar coastal cleanup activities. From Jamaica to the Turks and Caicos, and across to Antigua and Barbuda, the foundation stands as a beacon of hope for ecological preservation, reinforcing a regional commitment to safeguarding the stunning coastal environments that define the Caribbean’s natural beauty.
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