Sandals leads major beach clean-up effort

A section of Fisherman’s Beach in St. Ann’s Bay is now noticeably cleaner following a large-scale environmental effort led by Sandals Foundation Ambassadors and team members from Sandals Dunn’s River and Sandals Royal Plantation.

The volunteer initiative resulted in the removal of more than 1,000 pounds of waste from the shoreline, including plastic containers, glass bottles, damaged household items, clothing and other debris that had accumulated along the coast over time.

The activity forms part of a wider commitment by the resorts to support environmental preservation while encouraging greater community participation in keeping Jamaica’s beaches clean and healthy.

Kevin Clarke, general manager of Sandals Dunn’s River, said the initiative reflects the resort’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond its gates.

“Environmental responsibility is not something we reserve for special occasions. It is part of how we operate and how we engage with our communities,” Clarke said. “When our team members step out to support projects like this, they are helping to protect an important natural resource while demonstrating the power of collective action. Every bag of garbage removed represents a small but meaningful investment in the future of our coastline.”

The clean-up also served as an opportunity to highlight the role individuals can play in reducing pollution and protecting public spaces. According to Keish Beckford, regional public relations coordinator, sustainable change begins with consistent action.

“Activities like these remind us that environmental care starts with everyday decisions,” Beckford noted. “By bringing together volunteers from multiple resorts, we are not only improving the condition of the beach but also helping to foster a stronger culture of environmental awareness. The hope is that these efforts inspire others to become active participants in protecting the places that matter to all of us.”

Residents and members of the local fishing community welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation for the support shown by the volunteers. Many noted that cleaner beaches benefit everyone, from families who use the area for recreation to those whose livelihoods depend on the health of the coastal environment.

As part of their ongoing outreach efforts, the participating resorts will continue to support environmental projects across St. Ann through the Sandals Foundation, working alongside community partners to promote cleaner coastlines and a more sustainable future.