Beach Cleanups at Oceans 5 Gili Air

The pristine shores of Gili Air are a haven for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Yet, as with many paradises, the island is not immune to the challenges of marine debris and litter. Recognizing this, Oceans 5 Gili Air—a leading PADI Career Development Centre—has made environmental stewardship a cornerstone of its operations. Last week, the dive center organized two impactful beach cleanups, rallying the community and visitors to combat the ever-growing issue of rubbish.

A Collaboration with Gili Cares

The first cleanup took place on Thursday in partnership with Gili Cares, a local initiative focused on maintaining the ecological balance of the Gili Islands. This collaboration brought together volunteers, locals, and divemaster candidates from Oceans 5 Gili Air. The high tide had deposited a significant amount of debris in areas not usually targeted, such as the parking lot for horse carts and an open field adjacent to the dive center. Armed with gloves, bags, and an unwavering determination, the team set out to make a difference.

Over the course of an hour, volunteers worked methodically to remove waste. The collection effort yielded an impressive haul of rubbish, much of which included plastic bottles, food wrappers, and discarded fishing gear. Each bag of debris represented a small yet significant victory for the environment. By the end of the cleanup, the collaboration with Gili Cares had successfully cleared a substantial amount of waste from these neglected areas.

Friday’s Weekly Cleanup: A Community Affair

On Friday, Oceans 5 Gili Air held its regular weekly beach cleanup, an event that has become a hallmark of the dive center's commitment to conservation. This time, the cleanup saw enthusiastic participation from students of the University of Mataram and local children. The presence of the university students brought an added layer of energy and expertise, as many of them are studying marine science and are passionate about preserving the ecosystems they are learning about. The involvement of local children was equally inspiring, as it highlighted the importance of instilling eco-conscious values from a young age.

Like Thursday’s event, the Friday cleanup focused on areas impacted by high tide. Volunteers targeted the horse cart parking area and the nearby open field, both of which had become litter hotspots. With bags in hand, the participants scoured the areas, uncovering hidden trash and working together to remove it. The result was a collection of over 200 kilograms of rubbish across both days, a testament to the collective effort and determination of all involved.

Empowering Divemaster Candidates Through Eco Workshops

One of the unique aspects of these beach cleanups is their integration into Oceans 5 Gili Air’s divemaster training program. As part of their course, divemaster candidates participate in an eco event workshop that teaches them how to organize and lead conservation initiatives. This hands-on experience is invaluable, providing candidates with skills that extend beyond diving and into environmental advocacy.

During the workshop, candidates learn how to:

Plan and organize an event: From coordinating logistics to identifying target cleanup areas, candidates gain practical experience in event management.

Delegate tasks: Effective teamwork is crucial for a successful cleanup. Candidates practice assigning roles and ensuring that all participants feel involved and valued.

Present information: Communicating the importance of conservation and the goals of the cleanup is a key skill that candidates develop. This includes briefing participants on safety protocols and the environmental impact of their efforts.

The workshop not only equips divemaster candidates with practical skills but also instills a deeper understanding of their role as environmental stewards. By the end of the training, candidates are not just skilled divers but also ambassadors for marine conservation.

A Growing Impact

The success of last week’s cleanups is a reflection of Oceans 5 Gili Air’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. Since its inception, the dive center has consistently led efforts to protect the environment, organizing weekly cleanups and collaborating with local organizations. These initiatives have had a measurable impact, reducing litter on the island and raising awareness about the importance of conservation.

One of the standout elements of these cleanups is their ability to bring together diverse groups of people. Tourists, locals, students, and dive professionals all join forces, united by a common goal. This sense of community is one of the reasons why Oceans 5 Gili Air’s cleanups are so effective and inspiring.

The Role of Volunteers

Volunteers are the backbone of these cleanups. Their enthusiasm and hard work make it possible to tackle large areas and collect significant amounts of rubbish. For many, participating in a cleanup is a transformative experience. It provides a firsthand look at the impact of human activities on the environment and inspires a commitment to sustainable practices.

Participants often share their experiences on social media, amplifying the message of conservation to a wider audience. This ripple effect encourages more people to get involved, creating a cycle of positive action and awareness.

Challenges and Future Goals

Despite the successes, challenges remain. High tides and heavy rains often bring new waves of debris to the shores of Gili Air, making it a continuous battle to keep the beaches clean. Additionally, the global issue of plastic pollution requires systemic changes at both local and international levels.

Oceans 5 Gili Air is committed to addressing these challenges through ongoing cleanups, partnerships, and education. Future goals include:

Expanding collaborations: Building partnerships with more local organizations and schools to increase participation and impact.

Advocacy and education: Raising awareness about plastic pollution and promoting sustainable alternatives through workshops and campaigns.

Long-term solutions: Working with local government and businesses to implement waste management systems that prevent litter from reaching the ocean.

A Call to Action

The events of last week serve as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. Oceans 5 Gili Air invites everyone to join their future cleanups and become part of the solution. Whether you’re a seasoned diver, a first-time visitor, or a local resident, your efforts can make a difference.

As the tides bring new challenges, the commitment of Oceans 5 Gili Air and its volunteers remains steadfast. Together, they are not just cleaning beaches but also building a community dedicated to protecting the natural beauty of Gili Air for generations to come.