More than 700 enthusiastic persons from various governmental, non-governmental, business and other youth and community groups took to the streets of Anguilla on Friday, March 13th and Saturday March 14th as part of the “GREEN UP ANGUILLA” effort.

collected garbage on display

Some 25 groups began cleaning the road sides from 6:00 a.m. on Friday morning during an initial three hour blitz and the effort continued into the afternoon, culminating with additional groups doing their part on Saturday. Schools concentrated on cleaning up around their areas while organizations and businesses concentrated on the island’s main roads.

collected garbage on display

The effort was supported by a team from the Disaster Preparedness Committee, which included the Honourable Deputy Governor, Mr. Stanley Reid, whilst the Honourable Minister of Finance, Tourism and Economic Development, Mr. Victor Banks, joined a team in the Valley. Solid Waste Contractors assisted by collecting the bags of garbage left at the roadsides by the groups. The event generated much awareness among the participating groups who expressed concern about the need to continue the process to beautify the island.

Young People with bags of collected garbage

The GREEN UP ANGUILLA effort was organised by the Anguilla Hotel and Tourism Association, Cap Juluca and The Environmental Health Unit and included donations of bags, gloves water, and juice from several business places. The organizers are encouraging all residents to make cleaning up our surroundings a habit. Plans are under way to continue the initiative with awareness-building programmes and the removal of old appliances, furniture, and the like.

The organisers are expressing the appreciation to all the groups, businesses and individuals who participated in or contributed to the effort. Special thanks to the various media houses who promoted the idea and encouraged the island-wide participation.

| Printer-friendly page | Send this article to a friend |

World News