1. Introduction 

 The Young Economists Association (YEA) of the Department of Economics, University of Jaffna, successfully conducted a coastal clean-up campaign on September 13, 2024. The event, held from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, aimed to raise awareness about environmental conservation and encourage community involvement in preserving the J/81 – Pannai coastal area.

The campaign garnered significant participation from various stakeholders, including Mr. S. Krishnenthiran, Commissioner of Jaffna Municipal Council; Mr. S. Sutharsan, Divisional Secretary, Divisional Secretariat – Jaffna; Mr. K. S. Sivanesan, Registered Environmental Consultant, A B C Eco Consultant Pvt Ltd; Dr. N. Sarweswaran, Assistant Divisional Secretary; Mrs. K. Yohachandran, Environmental Officer; Mrs.N.Usha, Archeology Officer,  Mrs. J. Arulraj, Grama Niladhari; other staff members of the Divisional Secretariat, Jaffna; Dr. (Mrs.) K. Karunaanithy, Head of the Department of Economics; Prof. S. Vijayakumar, Professor in Economics; Dr. M Sarvananthan, Senior Lecturer, Mrs. M D A Christian, Senior Treasurer of YEA; Mrs. S. Piratheepan, Lecturer and Economic Development Officer; the Samurdhi Development Officer; and local village residents. A total of 45 economics students from the second, third, and final years participated, along with over 30 external participants.

The campaign offered students with a valuable opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge from their coursework to practical environmental challenges. By fostering teamwork and community engagement, the initiative significantly contributed to the preservation of the Pannai coastal area. This experience not only fulfilled a social responsibility but also enhanced students’ understanding and appreciation of environmental issues through the tangible application of theoretical concepts

2. Cleaning Campaign Activities and Outcomes

The cleaning campaign successfully achieved its objectives of thorough environmental restoration and long-term maintenance. A series of comprehensive activities were undertaken to address the accumulation of waste and promote environmental awareness.

Waste Management and Disposal

Volunteers diligently collected a wide range of litter, including plastic, paper, and other debris, from the coastal area. The collected waste was carefully sorted into recyclable and non-recyclable categories. Recyclable materials were segregated for proper disposal at designated recycling facilities, while non-recyclable waste was managed in an environmentally responsible manner.

Community Engagement and Education

To foster a sustainable approach to environmental stewardship, educational sessions and awareness campaigns were conducted throughout the day. Volunteers engaged with local residents and visitors, highlighting the detrimental effects of littering and plastic pollution. Informational materials were distributed to reinforce the message and encourage individual action.

Infrastructure Improvements

To support ongoing waste management efforts, new dustbins were strategically placed in key locations around the beach and surrounding areas. This initiative, undertaken in collaboration with local authorities, aimed to provide convenient waste disposal facilities and encourage responsible behavior among both residents and tourists.

The successful implementation of these activities resulted in significant environmental improvements and strengthened community involvement. The placement of dustbins and educational efforts are expected to have a lasting impact, promoting ongoing cleanliness and environmental care in the area.

3. Benefits of the Coastal Cleanup Campaign

The coastal cleanup campaign yielded significant benefits for both the local community and participants, addressing environmental, social, and educational concerns.

Environmental Impact:

The campaign’s primary objective was to mitigate the detrimental effects of waste pollution on the coastal area. By removing plastic, debris, and other contaminants, the initiative directly contributed to the preservation of marine ecosystems. This reduction in pollution not only safeguarded marine life but also improved air and water quality, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the beach environment.

Community Engagement:

The campaign fostered a strong sense of community involvement and collaboration. By working together towards a common goal, students and local residents were able to strengthen their bonds and develop a shared commitment to environmental stewardship. This engagement not only encouraged teamwork but also inspired individuals to take responsibility for maintaining cleanliness in their own neighborhoods.

Educational Value:

For participants, the campaign provided invaluable hands-on experience in environmental conservation. By engaging in waste collection, sorting, and disposal, individuals gained a deeper understanding of waste management practices and the challenges associated with environmental pollution. This practical exposure allowed participants to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, broadening their awareness of environmental issues and potential solutions.

Aesthetic Improvement:

The removal of waste from the coastal area resulted in a significant aesthetic improvement. The restored natural beauty of the beach made it more attractive to visitors and locals alike, creating a pleasant space for relaxation and recreation. This aesthetic enhancement is likely to have a positive impact on tourism and community pride, encouraging more people to visit and appreciate the clean surroundings.

4. Challenges Encountered

While the campaign achieved significant progress, certain challenges were encountered. A lack of specialized equipment hampered the efficiency of waste collection, as volunteers were unable to sort and collect waste effectively. Coordination with local waste disposal services was problematic, hindering the proper disposal of collected waste. Low public awareness of waste management issues resulted in limited community involvement. Moreover, the campaign’s focus on Pannai Beach was complicated by wind-borne debris from the adjacent area, increasing the volume of waste to be managed.

5. Gratitude for the support and facilities provided for the coastal cleanup campaign

The coastal cleanup campaign was a resounding success, made possible by the generous support and financial contributions of Mr. K. S. Sivanesan, a Registered Environmental Consultant with A B C Eco Consultant Pvt Ltd. Additionally, the invaluable assistance and resources provided by Mr. S. Sutharsan, the Divisional Secretary of Jaffna, and his dedicated staff were instrumental in ensuring the campaign’s effectiveness. The Jaffna Municipal Council, under the leadership of Commissioner Mr. S. Krishnenthiran, also played a crucial role by offering their full support and cooperation. Furthermore, the enthusiastic participation and assistance of local villagers were essential to the campaign’s success. We extend our sincere gratitude to all who contributed to this worthwhile initiative.

6. Conclusion 

The cleaning campaign organized by the Young Economists Association of the Economics Department at the University of Jaffna demonstrated remarkable success in its objectives. Through the collaborative efforts of volunteers and participants, the initiative effectively cleaned and improved the designated area, thereby contributing significantly to a healthier environment and fostering a sense of community responsibility.

While the campaign encountered certain challenges, these experiences provided valuable insights for future endeavors focused on environmental sustainability. The lessons learned will inform the planning and execution of subsequent initiatives, ensuring their continued effectiveness and impact.

The Young Economists Association looks forward to organizing more events that contribute to the well-being of the local community and environment. By building upon the success of this campaign, the association aims to make a lasting positive contribution to the region.