World Ocean Day Observed by the YMCA Timor Leste

World Ocean Day Observed by the YMCA Timor Leste

The World Ocean Day celebration is one of the important activities for taking care of the ocean. It raises awareness about the critical role oceans play in our ecosystem and encourages individuals and communities to engage in conservation efforts by participating in beach cleanups, reducing plastic usage, and supporting sustainable seafood practices. By coming together, we can help protect marine life and ensure the health of our oceans for future generations that depend on our actions today to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of our oceans. It is essential that we educate ourselves and others about the importance of marine ecosystems and advocate for policies that promote ocean health.

On June 6, World Ocean Day, about  22 YMCA volunteers participated, including 15 children and 7 adults, engaging in cleaning the beach on the Av. de Portugal road. Volunteers cleaned about two kilometres of the beach area that is regularly used for exercise and night markets.

The main objective of cleaning the beach as an important activity is to show our love for the blue ecosystem through action to make sure that it is clean from the plastics and other materials that may affect sea life. By participating in beach cleanups, we not only help protect marine life but also raise awareness about the impact of pollution on our oceans. This collective effort fosters a sense of community and responsibility towards preserving our natural resources for future generations. Preserving our natural resources for future generations is crucial, as it ensures that the beauty and biodiversity of our oceans can be enjoyed by all. Together, we can create a sustainable environment that not only supports marine life but also enhances our connection to nature.

By raising awareness of the blue ecosystem, participants, especially children and adolescents, became very active because it was the first time we introduced them to love and care for nature through actions.

Keep the Earth Clean, Save the Green Chittagong YMCA Beach Cleanup Initiative!

Keep the Earth Clean, Save the Green

Chittagong YMCA Beach Cleanup Initiative!

On June 20, 2025, the shores of Patenga Beach in Chattogram, Bangladesh became the site of a meaningful environmental action as YMCA Bangladesh hosted a beach cleanup under the theme “Keep the Earth Clean, Save the Green.” This initiative was not merely an act of removing waste from a popular coastal site—it was a symbolic and practical demonstration of the YMCA’s growing commitment to environmental stewardship, community mobilization, and global responsibility as outlined in YMCA Vision 2030.

The event’s call to action, “Step Up for the Planet – Join the Beach Cleanup!”, invited youth, families, and members to take part in preserving the beauty and health of our natural environment. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Volunteers of all ages gathered early in the morning, equipped with gloves, eco-bags, and a shared sense of purpose. With each plastic bottle, food wrapper, and discarded item collected, participants were reminded that real change often starts with simple, consistent actions.

This cleanup effort was directly aligned with YMCA’s Sustainable Planet pillar—one of the core areas of focus in Vision 2030. This pillar emphasizes the protection and regeneration of our planet and envisions a just transition toward a world where humans live in full harmony with nature. The event highlighted key environmental messages: Let’s save the Earth, Say no to plastic, Stop pollution, Go green, and most importantly, Change human behavior, not the climate. These slogans were not only printed on banners and T-shirts but were echoed in speeches, volunteer conversations, and community discussions throughout the day.

One of the most inspiring elements of the event was the diversity of members. From enthusiastic youth groups to local residents, everyone shared a sense of unity in purpose. This collaboration created an atmosphere of hope and collective responsibility. Members were not just cleaning a beach; they were actively participating in a global movement for environmental justice and sustainability.

The cleanup itself yielded tangible results. Several miles of waste were collected and properly sorted for recycling or safe disposal. In addition to the physical cleanup, the event served as an informal learning experience. Participants engaged in conversations about plastic pollution, climate change, and everyday practices that can reduce environmental harm. A reflection circle at the end allowed people to share what they learned and how they planned to carry these values forward.

Despite its successes, the event also shed light on ongoing challenges. The sheer volume of waste revealed the persistent issue of improper waste management and the need for stronger community education and infrastructure. However, instead of discouragement, this realization fueled a stronger commitment to do more. Organizers recognized the need to scale such efforts, involve more local partners, and advocate for policy changes to support environmental sustainability in urban and coastal areas.

In conclusion, the “Keep the Earth Clean, Save the Green” event was more than a beach cleanup—it was a powerful reminder that environmental action begins with each of us. It brought together community spirit, youth leadership, and global vision in a shared space of action. The event succeeded in raising awareness, inspiring behavioral change, and reaffirming YMCA Bangladesh’s dedication to building a just and sustainable future for all. As we move forward, such initiatives will play a crucial role in creating a planet where harmony between humans and nature is not just a vision, but a reality.

Reported by:
Immanuel Boiragy
General Secretary
Chittagong YMCA

Solar Project of the National Council of the YMCA, Sri Lanka

Solar Project of the National Council of the YMCA, Sri Lanka

The NCY of Sri Lanka, received the YMI Green Fund to support NCYSL’s commitment to environmental sustainability. With the generous support of the Ys Men International Green Fund, a 10 kVA Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System was installed at the National Council of YMCAs of Sri Lanka (NCYSL) headquarters.

This solar system was commissioned in February 2025 and marks a significant step toward reducing the organization’s carbon footprint. It is designed to offset the total carbon emissions generated by the operations of NCYSL, aligning with our broader goals of promoting clean energy, sustainability, and climate responsibility within the YMCA movement. NCY Sri Lanka is thankful to the YMI Green Fund support to continue the Solar project towards a sustainable planet.

Nimasha De Silva
Junior Executive Secretary
National Council of YMCAs Sri Lanka