A team of volunteer divers has removed nearly 300 pounds of garbage from the wreck of a yacht off the coast of Barbuda, in an effort to protect nearby coral reefs.

The operation focused on the wreck of the yacht Jonah, where debris and so-called “ghost nets” had become entangled in the surrounding reef system. Ghost nets are abandoned fishing nets that can continue to trap and harm marine life.

A group of 16 free divers and snorkelers spent several hours clearing the site, ferrying waste from the seabed to support boats. The wider team of 18 also included nine young Antiguan eco-divers and boat crew, who were praised for their contribution to the clean-up effort.

Organisers said the initiative highlights the growing role of youth in marine conservation and the importance of community-led action to protect fragile ecosystems.

Support for the project was provided by local tour operators and marine organisations, including Adventure Antigua and the Barbuda Ocean Club. Funding assistance came from the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) in Antigua and Barbuda.

Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world, but they are increasingly threatened by pollution, climate change and overfishing. Efforts such as this clean-up aim to reduce immediate hazards and support long-term reef restoration.

Video credit- Antigua Barbuda Ocean Trust