A Tradition with a Green Twist
The EkoSkola Committee at Margaret Mortimer School in Santa Lucia turned its annual camp into a mission for nature. This year, Clean Shore, Camp More became more than a bonding event. It was a powerful EkoSkola Beach Cleanup that left the Mellieha coastline cleaner and minds more aware.
A Partnership That Made It Happen
This impactful event was made possible thanks to the Connect 4 Impact Erasmus project: VolunteersMalta.com. Their support provided reusable gloves, trash pickers, solar-powered lights, and refreshments, allowing students to focus on cleaning while ensuring sustainability throughout the camp.
Cleaning Up While Learning
After a long, scenic drive from Santa Lucija to Mellieha, the students were eager to begin. They started by setting up tents, turning the site into their base for the eco-mission ahead. Teachers distributed reusable gloves, pickers, and trash bags, explaining how to sort waste into three types: mixed waste, recyclable waste, and organic waste.
The EkoSkola Beach Cleanup kicked off around the campsite, with students collecting trash scattered around trees, shrubs, and the garigue. Students found items like plastic bottles, paper waste, and even old packaging hidden under rocks and bushes, realising how easily litter damages nature. Each participant actively separated waste, learning how recycling can reduce landfill pressure and pollution.
Once the surrounding area was cleaned, the group made its way down a rocky path leading to the sea. Here, the students continued collecting waste while pausing to appreciate the coastline’s beauty. They discovered larger discarded items like tiles and old shoes, which they noted and collected during their return hike since they were too bulky to carry down.
As the sun set, the students gathered all collected waste, observing the visible difference their teamwork made. They enjoyed well-earned snacks and drinks, followed by a group popcorn session and off-screen board games, bonding under the stars.
The next morning, the group dismantled the tents and ensured no trace of their camp was left behind. All collected trash was taken up to the roadside, where the Cleansing Department was contacted. Coincidentally, a local Keep Malta Clean van passed by, spotting the grouped trash and collecting it with gratitude. The group then returned to school, tired but fulfilled, knowing their efforts contributed to a cleaner environment.
Immediate Benefits for Nature
The freshly cleaned area now offers a safer environment for local fauna and a more pleasant space for future visitors. By seeing the tangible results of their efforts, students were inspired to continue participating in cleanups and even expressed interest in joining environmental NGOs.
Youth Engagement Beyond the Classroom
Many students shared that this was their first experience sleeping outdoors and actively cleaning nature. It sparked conversations about responsible waste disposal, environmental stewardship, and community responsibility. Some students even suggested expanding future cleanups to include larger areas.
Why CSR Matters and How VolunteersMalta Can Help Your Business
VolunteersMalta bridges the gap between businesses and community projects like this EkoSkola Beach Cleanup. Our platform enables your company to align CSR activities with real community needs. Start here today!
Benefits of CSR for Your Business:
- Boost team morale: Employees value purpose-driven work.
- Enhance your brand: Customers prefer companies that care.
- Meet ESG and SDG goals: Contribute to sustainability and youth engagement.
- Strengthen local ties: Community engagement builds customer loyalty.
Ready to Make an Impact?
Your company can be the next partner in creating meaningful change. Visit VolunteersMalta.com to explore CSR opportunities that align with your goals.
Let your actions speak for your brand. Join VolunteersMalta and make your impact today.