PHILIPSBURG – The International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) got off to an energetic start this morning as 96 students from Oranje School, Leonard Conner School, and Charlotte Brookson Academy joined Tim Roosens and EPIC for a cleanup of the beach and boardwalk in Philipsburg.
In just an hour, the students collected an impressive yet concerning amount of trash, totalling 123 kilograms. As a treat after the cleanup, Tim, owner of Le Gelateria, provided ice cream to all participants. The student cleanup marks the start of a full weekend of ICC activities, with the community invited to get involved.
On Saturday, September 19, volunteers will gather at Little Bay Beach & Pond from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for a cleanup of the beach and surrounding area.
The activities continue on Sunday, September 20, with a cleanup of the Anse des Sables / Belle Creole area from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Underwater cleanup teams will also participate on Sunday.
Volunteers are reminded to bring a charged phone with the Clean Swell app downloaded and to wear closed-toe shoes. Gloves, garbage bags, and light refreshments will be provided. Interested participants can find more information and register at www.volunteer.sx.
The organisers also extend their thanks to Minister Gumbs, Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport, for facilitating the required permissions on short notice. The organisers also thank the schools and their students for participating and doing their part towards a cleaner and healthier Sint Maarten!
