INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEANUP

Date : 26th September 2026
Timing : 06:00 am – 08:30 am
Venue : THIRUVANMIYUR BEACH
Organised by : Hindustan International School
Participants : Students & Teachers
Number of participants : 25 Students / 11 Staffs

Introduction

The school organised an International Coastal Cleanup to create awareness about marine pollution and encourage students to take responsibility for protecting coastal ecosystems. The programme provided students with an opportunity to participate in a meaningful community activity while learning about the effects of plastic and other waste on marine life. The International Coastal Cleanup is a global initiative in which volunteers remove waste from beaches and waterways and record the types of debris collected. This information helps communities understand the marine litter problem and plan suitable action.

Objectives

• To create awareness about marine pollution and its impact on coastal ecosystems.
• To encourage students to reduce littering and the use of single-use plastics.
• To remove waste from the selected coastal area and promote cleanliness.
• To develop teamwork, leadership and community-service skills among students.
• To help students identify, classify and record different types of marine debris.

Programme Proceedings

The programme began with a short briefing by the SDG Coordinator. Students were informed about the purpose of the activity, the importance of coastal cleanliness and the safety measures to be followed. They were divided into teams and assigned specific sections of the coastal area.

Equipped with gloves, collection bags and other necessary materials, the teams collected visible litter from the assigned areas. The waste included plastic bottles, food wrappers, polythene bags, disposable cups, paper and other non-biodegradable materials. Students worked cooperatively and ensured that the collected waste was handled safely.

Students recorded the types and approximate quantity of waste collected. This activity helped them understand the common sources of coastal litter and the importance of collecting reliable environmental data. The programme concluded with a reflection session and a pledge to maintain clean surroundings and adopt responsible waste-disposal practices.

Outcomes

• Students gained a clearer understanding of marine pollution and its effects on marine organisms.
• The selected coastal area was cleaned and the quantity of visible litter was reduced.
• Students learned to identify, classify and record different types of marine debris.
• Teamwork, cooperation, leadership and communication skills were strengthened.
• Participants became more aware of the need to reduce, reuse and recycle materials.
• Students were encouraged to practise responsible waste disposal at school, at home and in public places.
• The programme strengthened the school’s commitment to environmental education and community engagement.

Activity Summary

Conclusion

The International Coastal Cleanup was a valuable learning and service activity. It enabled students to contribute directly to a cleaner coastline while developing environmental awareness, teamwork and responsible citizenship. The school may continue this initiative through regular cleanliness drives, plastic-reduction campaigns, waste-segregation activities and student-led awareness programmes.