On a vibrant morning, Rotaractors from various different clubs across Sri Lanka, banded together and embarked on a transformative journey to Unawatuna for the district event of Phase 03 of Clean SL, underwater session and awareness program. This one-day initiative, held on the pristine shores of Unawatuna, focused on protecting marine environments and raising awareness about the importance of ocean conservation. With the dawn barely breaking, the team set out from Colombo at 6 am, driven by a shared commitment to making a tangible impact on the coastal ecosystem.

By 9 am, the group reached Unawatuna, their spirits high and energy levels soaring. The day began with an insightful awareness session conducted by the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA). This session was pivotal, as it provided participants with crucial knowledge on the pressing issues of marine pollution and strategies to keep beaches clean. MEPA’s experts discussed practical solutions to prevent littering and the long-term benefits of maintaining a pristine shoreline.

The highlight of the session was a hands-on beach cleanup activity. Participants, equipped with gloves and trash bags, scoured the beach, meticulously collecting every piece of debris. This collective effort resulted in the removal of 12kg of trash, a small yet significant step towards restoring the natural beauty of Unawatuna. The sight of the clean beach served as a testament to what community-driven initiatives can achieve.

Post-cleanup, the participants engaged in discussions about sustainable practices to ensure the beach remains litter-free. Topics included responsible waste disposal, the importance of reducing single-use plastics, and community-driven efforts to maintain beach cleanliness. The exchange of ideas and experiences fostered a deeper understanding and a stronger resolve to continue such initiatives in the future.

The adventure didn’t stop at the shoreline. After the cleanup, the group was introduced to the underwater world of Unawatuna. A snorkeling session allowed them to marvel at the vibrant corals and observe the diverse marine life that thrives beneath the waves. For those keen on exploring deeper, a diving session was arranged. Before diving, participants underwent a thorough briefing on safe diving practices and a trial to assess their physical fitness for the activity.

The underwater exploration was nothing short of magical. The participants admired the intricate coral formations and the colorful fish darting through the waters, gaining a profound appreciation for the marine ecosystems they were striving to protect. This firsthand experience of the ocean’s beauty reinforced the importance of their conservation efforts.

As the day drew to a close, the group left Unawatuna at around 6 pm, heading back to Colombo with a sense of accomplishment and renewed motivation. The journey back was filled with reflections on the day’s activities, discussions on future projects, and the shared joy of having contributed to a noble cause.

Clean SL was not just an event but a movement towards a cleaner and healthier marine environment. It highlighted the power of collective action and the impact of community involvement in environmental conservation. The efforts of the Rotaract Club of ANC and its partners have set a precedent for future initiatives, inspiring others to take up the mantle of marine protection. This day in Unawatuna was a reminder of our responsibility towards the environment and the difference we can make when we come together with a common purpose. It was a day of learning, action, and a celebration of nature’s beauty, leaving an indelible mark on all who participated.