Coconut Shell Mound in McKinnons Wetlands (Photo Courtesy of EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network)
Following the success of International Coastal Cleanup Day activities on September 19, EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN) will continue its cleanup efforts with its “Do It Twice” Campaign on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at McKinnons Wetlands.
The public, particularly youth and residents from surrounding communities, are invited to join ESFN from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM for a community cleanup focused on removing waste and learning more about the importance of wetland ecosystems. Team members will be onsite from 6:00 AM.
McKinnons Wetlands contains a wide variety of waste, including plastic bottles, stoves, tiles and other discarded materials. The cleanup will provide an opportunity for community members to take practical action while gaining a better understanding of how waste impacts wetlands, wildlife and surrounding coastal areas.
“It has to change, and we are apart of the solution.” said Britney McDonald, Portfolio Manager for ESFN. The Do It Twice Campaign gives us an opportunity to continue the momentum from September 19 while bringing attention to another important wetland space.”
Wetlands play an important role in supporting biodiversity and food security. They provide habitat and nesting and breeding areas for birds, bees and other species, including important pollinators that contribute to food production. They help communities manage the impacts of storms by absorbing and slowing water, making their protection an important part of building resilience.
Bird Life in McKinnons Wetlands (Photo Courtesy of EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network)
Construction Waste in McKinnons Wetlands (Photo Courtesy of EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network)
The Do It Twice Campaign follows support provided by ESFN to the IHO Nature Rangers and continues a growing partnership with Antigua Cruise Port, JCI Antigua and the Antigua and Barbuda Agricultural Forum for Youth. Together, these partnerships are creating more opportunities for young people and communities to gain practical experience in environmental stewardship.
ESFN’s internship programme has provided interns and youth groups with first-hand experience working with wetland spaces throughout the summer and continuing through December. These experiences connect environmental education with practical action, helping young people better understand the ecosystems within their communities and the resources needed to protect them.
The organisation views the Do It Twice Campaign as an extension of its commitment to sustainable development education, community participation and environmental action. ESFN welcomes continued partnership and support for upcoming sessions, wetland activities, environmental education and other community-based conservation initiatives.
HOW TO JOIN
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Location: McKinnons Wetlands
Time: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Registration: https://qrco.de/bh0qwm
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: ESFN Extends Coastal Cleanup Efforts with McKinnons Wetlands Campaign.