The National Conservation Authority (NCA), in partnership with the Saint Lucia National Trust (SLNT), arranged a viewing of “Blue Planet: Our Ocean” to launch environmental clubs in in schools around the island.

The initiative is part of a campaign titled “Protecting Paradise: A Beach Education and Action Campaign.” The objective of the campaign is to conserve the beaches in Saint Lucia. The objective will be achieved through a series of educational activities and the installation of bins on local beaches.

Sean Anzaldua, Peace Corp volunteer attached to the NCA, said: “We have chosen to launch the clubs and the beach environmental education campaign starting with the movie, and continuing with a beach day, then transitioning to a campaign to build bins on the beach to educate and sensitize people about preserving the beach eco system,” he said.

The five schools in attendance were the Gros-Islet Secondary, Marchand Combined, Dennery Primary, Leon Hess Secondary, and Piaye Secondary schools.

Karetta Crooks Charles, Communications and Advocacy Officer at the SLNT explained the rationale behind the trust’s involvement.

“Last year we had a similar initiative with plastic oceans, and it’s never too much to repeat the message and stress the need to reduce pollution because it not only affects the marine environment but it will also affect us as human beings. Last year, we had close to five hundred students. This time we have a bit less but we are still imparting the important message of the need to protect the marine environment and thereby protect the livelihoods of those who rely on the oceans and our own human health.”

Massy Stores has been a strong advocate for decreasing pollution. The company donated EC$6000 EC towards the beach preservation campaign.

“This program is very aligned to Massy Stores and the company’s focus on plastic waste management and reduction,” said Sancha Raggie, Marketing Manager of Massy Stores. “Massy Stores aims to create a pro-recycling environment in Saint Lucia, and we believe that student education is a very good place to start. It important to create environmental stewards and the kids are perfect and critical where this is concerned.”

To conclude the first phase of the campaign, the conservation club members and teachers will participate in a series of science experiments and activities related to beach ecosystems, at the Vigie Beach on Thursday, March 7.