PROMAR Guyana Removes Over 460 kg of Marine Litter at International Coastal Cleanup 2026 on #63 Beach

On 19 September 2026, the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN) Guyana, through the Guyana-PROMAR Project implemented by the University of Guyana, led the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2026 at #63 Beach, Corentyne, Berbice. The activity was carried out in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with sponsorship support from Starbucks Guyana, Massy Stores and Environmental Technical Solutions Inc.

The cleanup aimed to mobilise volunteers to remove and document marine litter while raising awareness of marine pollution and encouraging responsible waste management practices. It also supported PROMAR Project Output IV by combining community action, environmental education and citizen science data collection.

At least 89 volunteers took part: 40 signed the attendance sheets, and a further 49 were identified through photographs taken for engagement measurement. The true number of participants was higher, but 89 is the minimum that could be verified. Together, they removed approximately 462 kg of waste from the coastline, around 92% of the 500 kg cleanup target.

Beyond removing litter, volunteers contributed to ICC's citizen science component by recording the types and quantities of waste collected on ICC data cards. The cards documented a wide range of items, including plastic and glass beverage bottles, beverage cans, food wrappers, plastic bags, bottle caps, cups and plates, packaging materials, fishing-related materials, construction materials and other plastic waste. This data helps identify common sources and patterns of marine litter and can inform future prevention efforts.

Participants also joined short discussions on marine litter, the PROMAR Project and the importance of the ICC. Topics included the common sources of marine litter, particularly single-use plastics, how improperly disposed waste can reach waterways and coastal environments, and the impacts of marine litter on ecosystems, wildlife and communities. The importance of reducing waste at source, reusing materials and disposing of waste responsibly was also emphasised.

To reinforce these messages, reusable merchandise, including water bottles and straws, was distributed to encourage alternatives to single-use items.

Through discussion and hands-on data collection, volunteers came to understand that tackling marine pollution means not only removing litter but also identifying and recording the waste present, so that future prevention efforts can be better targeted.

PROMAR Guyana extends sincere thanks to the EPA, Starbucks Guyana, Massy Stores, Environmental Technical Solutions Inc. and all the volunteers whose contributions made the cleanup possible. ICC 2026 at #63 Beach formed part of the wider awareness-raising efforts under the PROMAR Project, helping to increase understanding of marine litter and inspire practical action to reduce its threat to Guyana's coastline and the wider Caribbean Sea.