As National Coordinator for the past 31 years, the Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association - HELMEPA is launching once again this year the International Coastal Coastal Cleanup in Greece, the largest global voluntary event of its kind, with over 14 million volunteers worldwide.

With the moto "Join us and become part of the solution", the initiative will run in Greece from September 18 to October 31 2021 and is open to the public and all those who want to take action by symbolically cleaning a shore or part of the seabed from litter. Last year, despite restrictions due to the pandemic, more than 2.3 million tons of litter were collected worldwide along 80,000 kilometers of coastline.

The process is simple. Fill in the application form and receive instructions from HELMEPA to safely organize the activity along with the e-poster of the campaign. In addition, you will also receive the Data Recording Card, to contribute to the scientific study on marine litter. Alternatively, you may use the Clean Swell mobile app for greater convenience. After the activity, send us the completed Data Card and photos to share with our network. Also, our keen supporters are provided with the opportunity to adopt a beach in collaboration with the Local authorities and clean it at least twice a year.

The US-based NGO Ocean Conservancy is the Global Coordinator of the initiative, HELMEPA is the National Coordinator and the campaign is implemented with the technical support of the Hellenic Recovery Recycling Company.

Providing that the conditions with the pandemic in our country allow it, this is a great opportunity for everyone to reconnect with friends and colleagues and demonstrate our appreciation all the marine environment offers us!

Small changes add great value for the health of our planet.