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