Visakhapatnam, India – In a remarkable effort to promote environmental sustainability and raise awareness about the significance of ocean conservation, the state government of Visakhapatnam organized a mega beach clean-up program on Sunday. The event was held as part of the third G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group meeting taking place in Mumbai. The Information Technology and Industries Minister, Gudivada Amarnath, led the initiative, which saw the active participation of approximately 2,500 volunteers, including students, NGOs, government agencies, and private organizations.
Last year, Visakhapatnam made headlines with a groundbreaking clean-up campaign that spanned a 30-kilometer stretch of coastline, involving 25,000 dedicated volunteers. The waste collected during that event has now found a new purpose, thanks to the collaboration with the ‘Parley for the Oceans’ organization. Around 75 tonnes of waste gathered from the Visakhapatnam city beaches in August last year were ingeniously repurposed to manufacture sandals.
Mr. Amarnath emphasized the importance of keeping beaches and seas clean for the sake of future generations. “Approximately 70% of the Earth’s oxygen comes from the seas, making it the responsibility of each and every individual to contribute towards the preservation of our beaches and oceans,” he stated.
The beach clean-up campaign extends beyond Visakhapatnam, covering more than 30 beaches across nine coastal states and four Union Territories in India. Additionally, with the support of Indian embassies and consulates, the initiative is being organized in over 20 countries worldwide. The objective of this widespread campaign is to foster community participation and raise public awareness about the need for a sustainable and environmentally conscious lifestyle, aptly termed LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).
During the beach clean-up event, delegates and stakeholders, including Visakhapatnam District Collector A. Mallikarjuna, made a collective pledge to protect and maintain the cleanliness of the beaches. The occasion also featured an exhibition showcasing intricate sand sculptures and stalls dedicated to environmental protection.
The efforts displayed during the mega beach clean-up in Visakhapatnam serve as a testament to the growing global recognition of the importance of preserving our oceans and coastal ecosystems. Through innovative collaborations and community involvement, initiatives like this are creating a positive impact, instilling a sense of responsibility in individuals and promoting collective action for a cleaner and healthier environment.