Stepping Up for the Seas: Four-Island Cleanup Supports Kings Baton Relay in the BVI 

In celebration of the Kings Baton Relay for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland, the British Virgin Islands took bold action for clean oceans by hosting a four-island coastal cleanup. Organized by GreenVI in partnership with Commonwealth Sport and other local collaborators, the initiative aligned with the PROMAR Phase II project, which focuses on reducing marine litter across the Caribbean. 

Held on May 17, 24, and 31, 2025, the cleanups spanned Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and Tortola. Despite unexpected weather delays, volunteers across the islands showed remarkable dedication. In total, 33 volunteers came together to clean up key coastal areas—St. Thomas Bay Jetty, Setting Point, Great Harbour, and the Festival Grounds—removing an impressive 238 pounds of waste, 75% of which was plastic. 

Recyclables such as bottles, cups, cans, and glass were carefully separated and transported to GreenVI’s EcoParks on Virgin Gorda and Tortola, while all other waste was responsibly managed at designated landfills across the islands. 

This series of cleanups not only celebrated a key Commonwealth tradition but also reinforced the BVI’s ongoing commitment to marine conservation. By combining community engagement with environmental action, the event was a strong reminder that every step taken—on land or sea—can help protect our planet.