In celebration of World Ocean Day, CTC enthusiastically participated in two significant beach cleanup activities, demonstrating our commitment to preserving the marine environment. These events were organized by Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL), the Association of Fisheries and Marine Timor Leste (APMTL) and Youth Groups, such as Sustainable Ocean Alliance Timor-Leste, Lenuk Tasi, Underwater Cinema, NESS Timor-Leste in two different locations.

The first clean-up event, a collaboration between UNTL and the Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, was attended by over 200 students, youth volunteers, other local   organizations and residents. The event included beach and river clean-up activities at BJ Habibie, and an Underwater Clean-up at Cristo Rei, facilitated by Dremers Dive Academy, a diving operator in Timor-Leste. This significant collective effort was aimed at removing litter and debris from the beach, enhancing the natural beauty of the area and protecting marine life from the harmful effects of pollution.

“The primary objective of beach clean is to mitigate marine pollution in order to protect coastal ecosystems through beach, river and underwater clean-ups. This community effort mobilizes youth to mitigate harm to marine life and coastal habitats from litter and pollutants, to promote awareness about the importance of maintaining clean beaches and oceans within the community and the wider public.” said Delio, organizer and lecture in Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL).

The second cleanup event was located at Tasi-tolu, Dili Rock Beach. This initiative also saw an impressive turnout, with volunteers from various organizations and institutions coming together to contribute to the cause. Their dedication and hard work resulted in the collection of a significant amount of waste, which was properly disposed of to prevent further environmental damage.

One of the volunteers who joined the beach cleanup said: “As far as I know, Timor-Leste is very rich in marine biodiversity, such as coral reefs. This activity is really important for me to take action to protect our resources. Even though I’m not a student of marine science, I’m able to join in, celebrate, and make some positive impact on our ocean. To protect the ocean, it’s all our responsibility because the sea belongs to us. We need to do more events like this and visualize raising awareness among people and engaging them. I hope I’ll get invited to more activities like this and involve more of my friends so we can learn and also advocate.” 

CTC has been working in Timor Leste since 2012 to support the conservation of marine biodiversity through marine protected areas (MPAs) and capacity building. CTC works together with the government, local communities, local NGOs, universities, and other key stakeholders. CTC’s participation in these clean-up activities highlights its ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and support for collaborative efforts to protect Timor Leste’s beautiful marine ecosystems. By participating in these activities, CTC also aims to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining clean and healthy oceans for future generations.

Writers: Adam Putra, Novy Andrade, Marthen Welly
Photos: Delio/Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL)