CleanPlanet Day in September was an extraordinary event that exemplified the power of community and the positive impact we can have when we come together to care for our planet. On this special day, I had the privilege of supporting Emily Zuluaga from Oikos Green and Defensa Civil de Colombia in cleaning and transforming the Barrio La Isla in Pereira, Colombia. The experience was inspiring and a testament to the importance of proper equipment and community support in achieving our goals.
The Cleanup Mission: Our mission on CleanPlanet Day was clear: to clean and beautify the Barrio La Isla. Armed with determination and a strong sense of purpose, volunteers and community leaders gathered to make a difference. We faced a significant challenge as we picked up well over 15 trash bags, including ripped mattresses and broken furniture. However, witnessing how quickly we came together to transform this section of the neighborhood was heartening.
The Importance of Equipment and Support: One of the key takeaways from this experience was the importance of having the right equipment and support. We had essential supplies such as shovels, bags, gloves, and water. These seemingly simple tools made a world of difference in our cleanup efforts. It served as a reminder that equipping ourselves properly is crucial in achieving our environmental goals efficiently.
Emily's Guidance on Recycling: Emily Zuluaga from Oikos Green played a pivotal role in our cleanup event. She shared valuable insights with all the volunteers, emphasizing the significance of recycling and separating our trash at home before disposal. Emily highlighted that cleaning our trash before throwing it out can help prevent issues like insects and odors, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Acknowledging Oikos Green: Oikos Green is a remarkable organization dedicated to environmental consciousness and action. Their impact has been significant, reaching over 2,000 people in our region through environmental awareness talks. In 2021 and 2022, they recovered over 415,000 kilograms of waste, diverting it from landfills. They have allies in more than 2,250 individuals committed to Oikos' mission.
Oikos Green's initiatives also extend to children, with the creation of the Club Oikitos, a program designed to instill love for the planet, protection of living beings, and environmental care through art and culture. Additionally, their collaboration with the Colectivo Ave del Rio Reciclando and the "Habitante Kultural" program showcases how art and culture can be powerful tools for social and community work, reinforcing the message of environmental care.
Join Us in Making a Difference: At CleanPlanet, our mission is to empower community leaders to continue making a difference. Together, we can beautify our planet while enhancing the quality of life for all its inhabitants. As we reflect on our successful CleanPlanet Day in September, we invite you to join us in our monthly cleanups held on the last Saturday of every month. Together, we can create a cleaner, more sustainable future for our world.
CleanPlanet Day in September was a testament to the incredible impact we can achieve when we unite for a common cause. With the support of organizations like Oikos Green and the dedication of community leaders and volunteers, we can continue to make a positive difference in our environment. Join us in our mission, and together, let's build a cleaner, brighter future for all.
