We are thrilled to announce that our dedication to cleaning up the world’s oceans has expanded to Panama, with our latest cleanup mission taking place in the indigenous island community of St. Cristobal in Bocas del Toro. In collaboration with the Bocas Recycle Center and Seas & Straws, we embarked on a pivotal initiative to tackle the pressing issue of waste management in this underserved region.

The situation on the ground was dire, with the community lacking the resources to transport waste to the mainland, resulting in the nearby mangroves being used as a dumping site. The sheer scale of waste was staggering, with discarded furniture, appliances, and trash of all kinds strewn about the area. However, despite the challenges they face, the community’s determination to make a positive impact was palpable.

Our mission was not only to collect trash but to empower the community by educating them on the importance of separating recyclables from non-recyclables. We engaged local fishermen in the cleanup effort, highlighting the difference that can be made when individuals take action in their own backyard. By working together, we filled an astonishing 73 bags of trash, totaling around 2,900 pounds (1,300 – 1,400 kg) of waste removed from the environment.

This cleanup marks just the beginning of our journey with the St. Cristobal community. We plan to continue working closely with local leaders to establish regular pickup schedules for recyclable trash, paving the way for sustainable waste management solutions. Our objective is to create a lasting impact, and we are committed to supporting the community in their efforts to adopt environmentally conscious practices.

Stay tuned for updates on our progress in St. Cristobal and beyond as we work towards a vision of a trash-free ocean, where communities thrive in harmony with the environment.