International Coastal clean-up activity 2025
Date : 20th September 2025
Day : Saturday
Timings : 6.15 am to 9.15 am
Venue : Palavakkam Beach, Chennai
Attendees : 29 students and 35 teachers of HISG
Summary of the Session:
To mark International Coastal Clean-up Day, the students and staff of Hindustan International School, Guindy actively participated in a beach clean-up drive at Palavakkam Beach on 20th September 2025. The event was organized by Communitree, a communitydriven environmental organization, with a focus on protecting marine life from hazardous debris and encouraging civic responsibility in the younger generation.
This initiative not only addressed the growing problem of coastal pollution but also provided students with hands-on experience in environmental conservation, helping them understand the direct impact of human actions on marine ecosystems.
Participants
- Students: 29 from Grades 4 to 12
- Teachers : 35
- Total Participants: 64
Despite the early hours and unexpected rain, the students showed immense dedication by arriving at school on time. The team departed from school at 6:15 am and reached Palavakkam Beach shortly after. The clean-up activity was carried out with enthusiasm from 7:00 am to 9:00 am, after which the team returned to school by 10:00 am.
Activities Conducted
Upon reaching the beach, participants were grouped and briefed on safety protocols and waste segregation practices. Equipped with gloves, garbage bags, and protective masks provided by
Communitree, the volunteers began cleaning designated stretches of the beach.
Types of waste collected included:
- Plastic bags, bottles, and wrappers
- Beverage cans and glass shards
- Fishing nets and marine debris
- Foam materials and non-biodegradable packaging
Students worked systematically, collecting and sorting the waste into recyclable and nonrecyclable categories, which were later picked up by local municipal authorities for proper
disposal.
Challenges and Highlights
- Weather Conditions: Light showers occurred in the early morning, but this did not deter the students. Their commitment to the cause was evident as they continued their efforts with energy and enthusiasm.
- Team Spirit: Students collaborated effectively with their peers and teachers, showcasing strong teamwork and leadership.
- Community Engagement: Beachgoers and passers-by were curious and appreciative of the clean-up effort, leading to spontaneous conversations about reducing plastic use and littering.
Refreshments and Wellbeing
To ensure the well-being of all participants, light refreshments were provided after the cleanup. This gave students and staff an opportunity to relax and reflect on their experience while
enjoying the scenic beauty of the coast.
Educational Outcomes
This initiative served as an experiential learning opportunity for the students, who gained:
- A deeper understanding of coastal and marine pollution
- Insight into the importance of community-led environmental initiatives
- Awareness of the role individual actions play in ecological preservation
- A sense of pride and responsibility toward protecting public spaces
- Students expressed that they thoroughly enjoyed the experience, despite the challenging weather, and felt a renewed sense of environmental consciousness.
Conclusion
The beach clean-up at Palavakkam Beach was more than just a cleanliness drive. The students and staff of Hindustan International School, Guindy showcased their commitment to
sustainability and community service. The event, organized seamlessly by Communitree, created a meaningful impact on both the participants and the environment.
Such initiatives are essential in nurturing a generation that is not only aware of environmental issues but is also prepared to take action and be the change.
Acknowledgement:
We extend our sincere gratitude to Communitree for their support and coordination, the SDG Coordinator at HISG, Ms Sheema, who helped organize this event, Mr Chidambaram and to the dedicated students and staff who contributed toward a cleaner and healthier coastline.
