A clean neighbourhood is good for the environment, beneficial for residents, especially children, all while increasing property values and growing community investment; something Grand Bahama is working hard to do after several hurricanes and economic challenges.

Since its inception, The Keep Grand Bahama Clean (KGBC) Committee, an initiative of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited, has embarked on a mission to create cleaner, greener communities across the island of Grand Bahama.

That mission has seen the committee dedicate itself to various efforts and projects from coastal awareness and clean-ups to, demolition of dilapidated buildings.

This month, KGBC is marking the observance of ‘Partners Against Litter Month’ on Grand Bahama.  With a full month of activities already underway, Co-Chairman of KGBC, Narkira Wilchcombe, is excited about all their efforts.  

“Our committee model advocates the need for partnerships at all levels and in all sectors, for true and long-lasting success in environmental stewardship for GB” she explained. 

“So, during the month of April we want to particularly highlight the importance that every single person on this island plays in tackling this important issue of keeping our island clean. Our motto states that ‘It’s everyone’s business and everyone’s responsibility to Keep Grand Bahama Clean: our lifestyles, our economy and our future depend on it,” she explained.

Among the calendar of planned events are a series of presentations to civic organizations and schools.  Environmental message displays took place on Friday, April 20th and then the committee supported the Bahamas National Trust at the annual Parks Day held at the Lucayan National Park.

 The committee will join in the global Earth Day Celebrations under the theme “End Plastic Pollution” by eliminating single-use plastics during the week of April 23rd-27th, 2018.

 Participants are being encouraged to take photos and post them on the KGBC Facebook page, www.facebook.com/keepgbclean with the hashtag #noplasticschallenge”.

 This concept will be continued in partnership with AML Foods in their ‘Bring Your Own Bag (BYOB)’initiative which will see reusable bags distributed to customers of Solomon’s Food Stores in Freeport, to encourage locals to join in the global reduction of plastics bags use as they shop.

 The month of activities will close on April 28th with a beach clean-up at Freeport’s, Barbary Beach as well as erecting new signage in key areas of the island to encourage cleaner, and greener living.

“We hope that through these activities and events,” said Wilchcombe, "Grand Bahamians are encouraged to not only keep their communities clean but also work to raise awareness within their specific circles of influence about of the impact of littering on our environment and our way of life.”

Persons interested in participating in any of this month’s clean-up efforts are encouraged to visit the committee’s social media page for more information, tune in to the GBPA Forward Focus on line show.

 Those interested in participating in any of the month’s events are welcome to call the KGBC committee at 350-9158.