As part of the Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG) and Swachha Vasundhara Abhiyaan, over 1850 young volunteers came together on International Coastal Cleanup Day to protect Mumbai's vital mangrove ecosystems.
Held at Carter Road Beach, the drive highlighted the crucial role of mangroves in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity. These ‘coastal superheroes are under threat due to human activities such as pollution, deforestation, and unsustainable practices.
The young volunteers demonstrated their commitment to sustainable human behaviour by participating in this initiative. They understood that individual actions can significantly impact the environment and that adopting eco-friendly practices is essential for building a sustainable future.
Terence Lewis, renowned Bollywood choreographer, urged the young volunteers to actively take care of the earth. He said, “We don’t realise what the problem is but since you’ve participated in this drive today, you would have come to know how much plastic is used and thrown away, especially single-use plastics. It will be great for the next generation to take care of the planet Earth. You already have this awareness and consciousness towards the environment and nature. You can definitely make a change. The future lies with you.”
Poonam Soni, Founder, Poonam Soni Signature Line, the global luxury brand, congratulated the volunteers and organisations for their efforts. She said, “Through this initiative, we are securing our future, our environment and our earth.”
The drive was a resounding success, not only in terms of waste removal but also in fostering environmental responsibility among the youth. As future leaders, they are poised to inspire others to join the movement for a cleaner, healthier planet.
Vishesh Gupta, Chairperson, Bharat Soka Gakkai expressed, "'Sustainable Human Behaviour' begins with respect for nature. Cleaning beaches isn’t just about removing trash; it’s about resetting our relationship with the environment and making a conscious effort to adopt sustainable habits.”
This youth-led initiative was unique in its broader impact, urging people to embrace sustainable human behaviour as a way of life. By genuinely caring for and considering the well-being of others, we can respect the dignity of all life through our daily actions. The drive not only aimed to clean up marine debris and protect mangrove habitats but also sought to raise awareness, engage the community, and drive positive behavioural change.
