Organized by the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), National Environmental Awareness Week 2025 will take place in Jamaica from 1–8 June, aligned with global efforts for World Environment Day and World Oceans Day. This year’s theme, “Turning the Tide: Combatting Plastic Pollution for Ocean Resilience,” highlights the urgent need to address plastic pollution and protect Jamaica’s marine ecosystems.

This year’s observance also aligns with regional efforts led by the United Nations Environment Programme – Cartagena Convention Secretariat, and the GEF LAC Cities project, which is working in six cities across Latin America and the Caribbean. In Kingston and Montego Bay, the project focuses on identifying innovative, multistakeholder solutions at the city level to reduce plastic leakage, strengthen recycling systems, and inspire lasting behavior change.

The week will feature a series of in-person events designed to engage the public, policymakers, youth, and community stakeholders in meaningful dialogue and action around ocean protection and sustainability.

Key Activities Include:

• Environmental Symposium – June 5: Held at the Jamaica Conference Centre on World Environment Day, this event will convene government officials, environmental leaders, and private-sector stakeholders to discuss long-term strategies for tackling plastic pollution and promoting sustainable development.
• Coastal Clean-Up and Mangrove Tour – June 6: A hands-on clean-up at Gallows Point, Port Royal, alongside an educational boat tour for students to explore the role of mangroves in climate resilience and marine biodiversity.
• 3K Run/Walk – June 8 (World Oceans Day): A community fitness event at Hope Botanical Gardens to raise funds for NEPA’s conservation initiatives, with a focus on Jamaica’s endemic tree ferns and the endangered American crocodile.

National Environmental Awareness Week 2025 promotes cross-sector engagement, public awareness, and youth involvement to address plastic pollution and foster environmental resilience at all levels.

This is an on-site initiative. For full participation details, please visit www.nepa.gov.jm