Scotland Bay Coastal Cleanup – Turning Marine Litter into Data
In a robust display of environmental stewardship, the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA), in partnership with the Caribbean Network for Integrated Rural Development (CNIRD) and the Ministry of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development (MPEAD), spearheaded a coastal cleanup at Scotland Bay on July 17, 2026. Through this joint effort, seventy bags of garbage weighing 954 pounds (433 kg) of marine and coastal litter were successfully removed from the coastline. The environmental exercise was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Prevention of Marine Litter in the Caribbean Sea (PROMAR) Project.
To execute the operation, the initiative brought together scores of dedicated environmental stewards, including representatives from the Trinidad and Tobago Youth Ambassadors, the Queen’s Royal College (QRC) Scouts, and the Coastal Protection Unit, who journeyed by sea in the morning to reach the Bay. Complementing the land operations, volunteers also included divers from the Trinidad and Tobago Eco-Divers Club, who conducted an underwater cleanup component
On shore, the CNIRD led the land-based cleanup, removing over 433 kg of marine waste in just five hours. Plastics accounted for the largest portion of the litter collected, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to reduce plastic pollution.
To ensure maximum efficiency and accurate data collection, volunteers were organised into four-person groups. While three people combed the shoreline and immediate vegetative border to sift out litter and retrieve hidden refuse, the fourth person recorded items using the standard Ocean Conservancy Trash Data Form. Debris was systematically collected, sorted and weighed. Ultimately, bottles, aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and other categories of litter formed a significant portion of what was collected—much of which can be recycled or reused. The materials collected pose a severe threat to the environment, both by clogging drains and causing flooding, as well as endangering the reefs, fish, and turtles that are vital to the ecosystem and local livelihoods.
The location itself underscores the urgency of these actions. Cherished for its natural beauty and serenity, Scotland Bay faces a severe marine litter problem, with debris frequently washing ashore due to its geographical position and heavy recreational boat traffic. Tackling marine pollution at this popular “Down D Islands” recreational retreat requires a dedicated, hands-on approach. Because the Bay is tucked away by steep green hills that block the wind, its unique geography results in calm waters, low wave action, and weak ocean currents that often trap floating marine debris and litter.
This cleanup exercise double-hatted as a critical Site Captains Cleanup and Training session hosted by CNIRD- the National Coordinator for the Ocean Conservancy International Coastal Cleanup. This specialised training prepared regional environmental leaders and national youth ambassadors to gather essential marine data and efficiently coordinate larger upcoming restoration efforts[DRJ1] .
Ultimately, coastal cleanup efforts not only help to preserve marine ecosystems but also raise awareness about the ubiquitous threat of marine litter. By engaging various stakeholders, initiatives like this promote responsible waste management practices and inspire lasting behavioural change. Given that plastic pollution poses a significant threat to marine life, coastal livelihoods, and human health, the PROMAR Project plays a critical role in promoting the elimination of single-use plastics and embracing a circular economy approach to create a sustainable future for all.
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