International Coastal Cleanup 2011

Protection of Coastal and Marine Environment Took Teamwork

Ocean Park has continuously demonstrated its undivided support to the International Coastal Cleanup. 2011 is the eighth year that Ocean Park has organized this meaningful activity.

On 29th October 2011, 78 energetic volunteers from Ocean Park SmartFun Annual Pass holders, teachers and students from Sheng Kung Hui Tang Shiu Kin Secondary School and staff helpers from Ocean Park went to the beach near Dolphin University to remove the coastal trash. With their tremendous efforts, a total of 156 kg of trash was collected in the area, thus demonstrating our volunteers’ determination in protecting coastal and marine environments as well as spreading green awareness. The trash collected comprised of mainly Styrofoam, beverage bottles (plastic) and even construction materials.

In the opening speech before the cleanup, Ocean Park Chief Executive Tom Mehrmann said, “Coastal protection is an issue that demands our continuous attention, and Ocean Park has always been strongly supportive of community initiatives in Hong Kong such as the International Coastal Cleanup to raise eco-awareness among the public. Apart from supporting the no-straws initiative for a number of years, our “a-box-a-day” staff incentive program, which encourages Park staff to use personal lunch boxes for takeout orders from staff canteens, continues to receive strong support. From December 2007 to June 2011, over 19,600 meals were served in personal containers. We hope that our work will inspire even more people among the community to recognize the importance of conserving the environment.”

To thank all of our volunteers for devoting their time and energy to the cause and for their support to environmental protection, an award ceremony took place after cleanup to present all volunteers with certificates in appreciation for their help.

At the end of the evening, volunteers enjoyed a delicious buffet catered by the Park.