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

YMCA Philippines National Eco-Heroes Training Empowers Youth and Staff for Climate Action

YMCA Philippines National Eco-Heroes Training Empowers Youth and Staff for Climate Action

By: IANNE CHRISTINE J. AQUINO
OIC-National Program Secretary
YMCA of the Philippines, Inc.

The YMCA of the Philippines successfully concluded its National Eco-Heroes Training on April 22–24, 2025, at the YMCA of Albay, marking a powerful celebration of Earth Day through immersive learning, intercultural collaboration, and youth-led environmental action.

Gathering 20 passionate participants from various local YMCAs across the Philippines, along with international delegates from Sao Hin, Chiangmai YMCA in Thailand, the three-day training served as a transformative experience for emerging eco-leaders and YMCA staff alike. The program focused on equipping participants with the tools, knowledge, and mindset needed to champion sustainable practices within their communities.

A key highlight of the training was the experiential learning activity on coral planting in the YMCA of Albay’s 2,000 sq. m adopted area for marine rehabilitation in the Albay Gulf. This hands-on experience allowed participants to directly engage in restoring marine ecosystems while deepening their understanding of the “ridge to reef” connection—how actions on land affect life underwater. This activity not only emphasized the importance of ocean conservation and biodiversity but also inspired participants to take responsibility in protecting and nurturing the planet’s interconnected natural systems.

The training also featured the cascading of the youth-led project titled “Cultivating Action through Responsible Education (CARE) for Climate, developed by the Youth-Led Solutions on Climate Action Philippine Coalition. This module aims to reinforce YMCA environmental efforts by providing a structured, holistic guide for catalyzing youth- and community-driven climate action. It promotes sustainable practices, environmental advocacy, and behavior change, while encouraging the formation of a national network of YMCA Eco-Heroes.

Designed to strengthen the capacity of YMCA General Secretaries, key staff and volunteers involved in environmental programming, the training delivered a range of dynamic sessions on Climate Change and International Treaties, Carbon Auditing, Environmental Skills and Activism, Leadership Development, Benchmarking of Good Practices, and Action Planning for Local Initiatives.

As a result of the training, YMCA staff were empowered with enhanced knowledge and practical skills to lead climate initiatives in their respective communities. Participants gained useful tools and strategies to advance sustainability, environmental education, and positive behavior change, particularly among young people. The training also strengthened their capacity to serve as mentors for future eco-leaders, expanding the reach of climate advocacy across the YMCA movement. Most importantly, participants developed actionable, locally rooted plans to sustain and scale environmental interventions, ensuring long-term impact well beyond the training itself.

The National Eco-Heroes Training reaffirmed the YMCA’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development. Through experiential learning, capacity-building, and the cascading of youth-led innovations like CARE for Climate, the YMCA is cultivating a new generation of eco-advocates committed to building a greener, more resilient future.

Earth Day Celebration at Lahore YMCA

Earth Day Celebration at Lahore YMCA

Lahore YMCA organized an Earth Day celebration on April 22, 2025, to promote environmental awareness and responsibility. The event highlighted the importance of taking care of our planet and inspired young people to take small but meaningful actions toward sustainability.

Main objectives of the Program were:

• To raise awareness about environmental challenges such as pollution, climate change, and waste.
• To encourage practical actions like recycling, water conservation, and tree planting.
• To provide a platform for students to creatively express their concern for the environment.

The event was attended by students, teachers, and staff at the Lahore YMCA. Fine Arts students actively participated by creating artwork on environmental themes and recording short video messages. Around 20 students showcased paintings and drawings that carried powerful messages about nature and environmental care. Their video messages addressed key issues such as plastic pollution, water waste, and the importance of a clean environment.

The output of the program was:

• Art Display: Students displayed original paintings and drawings promoting Earth-friendly messages.
• Video Presentations: Students shared short video messages suggesting simple eco-friendly habits like recycling and tree planting.
• Awareness Raising: The event successfully engaged the YMCA community in environmental conversation and reflection.

The program encouraged participants to take ongoing action for environmental protection beyond Earth Day.

Participants learned that even small daily habits can contribute to big changes. They realized the power of creative expression in spreading environmental awareness and understood that everyone has a role in protecting the Earth.

“The students shared their concerns and hopes for the planet so beautifully. Their passion really moved us.”
— Teacher, Lahore YMCA

“We must care for the Earth every day, not just on Earth Day.”
— Fine Arts Student Participant

Students shared reflections through video messages and artwork. Their contributions were heartfelt and showcased their deep understanding of environmental issues.

Ramis John,
Youth Coordinator,
Lahore YMCA