Over 1,000 volunteers collect 11 tons of trash during #GUAM cleanup

Hagåtña, Guam - On Saturday, August 1, 2020, the Islandwide Beautification Task Force (IBTF), chaired by the Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio, in collaboration with the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB), hosted the Give Us A Moment #GUAM Island Pride Beautification Event. The cleanup received overwhelming support from more than 1,000 volunteers representing all three branches of government, the private sector, and non-profit organizations.

Despite being postponed from its original date of June 27, many proceeded with their cleanup assignments and collected a total of 2.27 tons of trash, as recorded by the Guam Solid Waste Authority (GSWA). After the August 1 cleanup, GSWA recorded an additional 9.07 tons, totaling 11.34 tons. Items included general waste, 200 tires, white goods, and metals.

In addition to the #GUAM Cleanup, GVB and the Department of Agriculture hosted an algae cleanup in Tumon Bay. Volunteers collected approximately 1.5 tons of the invasive macroalgae known as Chaetomorpha, which harms the ecosystem as it smothers coral and marine life, blocking sunlight for coral to thrive.

“The last four months have been focused on COVID-19 response, but now we begin the shift towards recovery. While tourism may be at a standstill globally, this is an optimal time to restore our island’s beauty and island pride for all who call Guam home,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero.

“We need to remind ourselves that littering is disrespectful not only to our environment but to our island as well. Solving this problem requires a multifaceted effort—beginning with each of us,” said Lt. Governor Tenorio.

“It was a great turnout this past Saturday and we appreciate the collaboration with Lt. Governor Tenorio and the Islandwide Beautification Task Force. Si Yu’os Ma’åse’ to all the agencies, businesses, and volunteers for taking the time to clean up our island. Let’s continue this beautification momentum,” said former Governor Carl Gutierrez, GVB President & CEO.

Photos and videos of the Give Us A Moment #GUAM Island Pride Beautification Event can be found on the IBTF social media pages and the Office of the Governor of Guam YouTube Channel. To get involved in future events, email ibtf@guam.gov.