By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Education Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

Students from Louise McDonald High School took the lead in a major island-wide clean-up, joining forces with local partners to protect Bimini’s environment as part of World Clean-up Day.

More than 120 students and faculty from Louise McDonald High School took the lead in a community-driven cleanup effort, joined by local residents, community leaders, and employees of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. 

The initiative, organized by the MSC Foundation in partnership with the high school, the Bimini District Council, and the Bimini for Sustainable Tourism Council, mobilised participants to collect approximately 30 fifty-gallon bags of litter and marine debris. The collective effort accounted for over 200 volunteer hours.

Students also attended an interactive awareness session led by Emeline Bouchet, marine programme manager at the MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Centre at Ocean Cay. Ms Bouchet highlighted the importance of protecting marine habitats, reducing waste, and the critical role young people play in advancing sustainability.

“This clean-up is about much more than removing trash,” said Ms Bouchet.

“It is about sparking a mindset shift, empowering the next generation, and ensuring that people, wildlife, and the natural beauty of places like Bimini thrive together in balance. The enthusiasm of the students and the support from local leaders and residents show what is possible when we act together.”

The clean-up also saw support from Senator Randy Rolle, representatives from Local Government and the Ministry of Tourism, and residents.

“It was an honour to join the MSC Foundation, Louise McDonald High School, and other partners in celebrating World Clean-up Day here in my hometown of Bimini,” said Mr Rolle. 

Nadia Sherman-Rolle of the Ministry of Tourism added: “Joining together with the MSC Foundation, the Louise McDonald High School, and other local stakeholders for World Cleanup Day was both meaningful and rewarding. It was a pleasure for the Bimini Tourist Office team to be there, lend a hand, and support an initiative that highlights the importance of keeping our island clean and beautiful.”

The MSC Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the MSC Group.