MSC Foundation volunteer cleaning the beach

MSC Foundation Organizes World Cleanup Day Initiative with Bimini Community Partners

04.16.2026Return to Stories

In honour of World Cleanup Day, the MSC Foundation organized a major cleanup effort in The Bahamas, in partnership with the Bimini District Council, the Bimini for Sustainable Tourism Council and Louise McDonald High School. In an impressive display of environmental stewardship, over 120 high school students and faculty members came together with Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve employees, residents and Bimini community leaders to participate in the event.

Members of the MSC Foundation and Bimini community standing for a group picture in The Bahamas for World Cleanup Day.

Collaborating for Conservation

Reflecting the MSC Foundation’s ongoing commitment to marine conservation and community engagement in The Bahamas, the World Cleanup Day initiative generated over 200 hours of collective volunteer work in that one morning. Ambitious in their efforts to protect Bimini’s delicate marine ecosystems, participants successfully filled about 30 50-gallon bags with litter and marine debris.

Enthusiasm throughout the morning was further elevated by the presence of Bahamian Senator Randy Rolle, who, alongside representatives from Local Government and the Ministry of Tourism, participated in the cleanup.

Reflecting on the event, Senator Rolle said, “It was an honour to join the MSC Foundation, Louise McDonald High School, and other partners in celebrating World Cleanup Day here in my hometown of Bimini. I am grateful for the continued commitment that MSC Foundation has shown to our islands, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact of these collaborations for years to come.”

Echoing that sentiment, Nadia Sherman-Rolle of the Ministry of Tourism stated, “We are truly grateful for the MSC Foundation’s continued partnership with the Bimini community. Joining together with the MSC Foundation, the Louise McDonald High School, and other local stakeholders for World Clean Up Day was both meaningful and rewarding. It was a pleasure for the Bimini Tourist Office team to be there, lend a hand, and support an initiative that highlights the importance of keeping our island clean and beautiful.”

Attendance by the Senator and government representatives signified how impactful collaboration between the government, private sector and the public is when navigating environmental challenges.

Early Education for a Sustainable Future

Blending hands-on action with education, the initiative featured an interactive awareness session for students. Presented by Emeline Bouchet, Marine Program Manager at the MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Center at Ocean Cay, the session addressed the importance of reducing waste, protecting marine habitats and the long-term role of younger generations in sustainability advancements.

“This cleanup is about much more than removing trash,” said Bouchet. “It is about sparking a mindset shift, empowering the next generation, and ensuring that people, wildlife, and the natural beauty of places like Bimini thrive together in balance. The enthusiasm of the students and the support from local leaders and residents show what is possible when we act together.”

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