The beaches of Punta Brava , in the Tenerife municipality of Puerto de la Cruz, have regained their natural appearance after a major cleanup effort led by the Loro Parque Foundation . This waste collection day was carried out thanks to collaboration with the Promemar association and the support of the local council, just after the beach reopened to the public for swimming.
The activity is part of the 'For a More Sustainable Ocean' initiative , a project that not only includes cleaning coastal areas but also integrates educational and outreach activities to promote environmental awareness among the population. The on-site work brought together volunteers of different ages, including the young directors of Loro Parque, who participated in short information sessions about the problem of microplastics and the need to adopt best practices.
Waste removal: a key effort for the environment
During the cleanup, 21 kilograms of waste were removed from the beach. The collected debris included cigarette butts, microplastics, jerrycans, toys, pieces of cork, electrical appliances, and even medications. This reflects the pressure on coastal ecosystems, especially those on the island of Tenerife, and highlights the urgent need for action to curb ocean pollution.
The presence of volunteers and representatives from collaborating organizations was essential to the success of the initiative. Among those attending the event were Cybell Kiessling, Director of Administration for the Loro Parque Group; Felipe RodrÃguez, Councilor for Beaches; members of Promemar; and other groups involved in environmental protection.
Citizen awareness and collaboration
One of the main objectives of the event was to raise awareness among the local community about the importance of keeping coastal environments free of litter. Educational activities aimed at both adults and young people focused on the negative impact of waste—especially plastics—on marine biodiversity and the health of beaches.
The event was sponsored by various entities, including Loro Parque Foundation , Hidráulica, Poema del Mar, Meridiano Shopping Center, Kms Verdes Sports and Environmental Association, Tenerife Shipyards, Montesano, Marnin, Robyn Goods, Muvit, neighborhood associations in the Canary Islands, Coca-Cola, CompañÃa Cervecera de Canarias, Fonteide, Solar Clic, and NaturCiclo, among others. The combined efforts of the public sector, private companies, and citizen groups proved to be a key element in achieving tangible results.
Impact and continuity of environmental actions
The 'For a More Sustainable Ocean' project also includes underwater cleanups, talks, and exhibitions about the problem of marine litter. Each cleanup reinforces the idea that cooperation and collective commitment are essential to preserving the archipelago's natural wealth and ensuring the quality of marine environments.
As Cybell Kiessling pointed out during the event, protecting coastlines should be understood as a shared responsibility of society. Simple actions such as picking up litter or avoiding the use of single-use plastics contribute to the improvement of the coastline and the future of the oceans.
The cleanup in Punta Brava, led by the Loro Parque Foundation , exemplifies how collaboration between organizations, public entities, and citizens can translate into concrete actions that generate tangible benefits for the environment. Similar initiatives will continue to be developed in different areas of the islands, with the aim of raising awareness and uniting efforts in the fight against marine pollution.
