‘Erasing Plastic Footprints’ Campaign in Celebration of World Environment Day

In celebration of World Environment Day on June 5, the Church of God members from around the world conducted the “Erasing Plastic Footprints” campaign. The campaign aimed to protect marine ecosystems by picking up and sorting plastic waste from beaches and rivers, raising public awareness, and encouraging the reduction of plastic use in the future. This initiative is also part of the Church’s “Global Hope Challenge,” a global social contribution campaign to mark the 60th anniversary of the Church’s establishment. The campaign ran from June 16 to July 8 across more than 10 countries, including Republic of Korea, Nepal, Malaysia, India, the United States, and Brazil.

During the opening ceremony before the volunteer work began, representatives from the older generation, young adults, and students read the “Intergenerational Joint Declaration.” This declaration expressed a commitment for current and future generations to work together to reduce carbon emissions, protect ecosystems, and keep the planet healthy. The Church members organized panel exhibitions on-site to educate the public about plastic pollution and practical ways to protect the environment in daily life. After the panel explanation, the members worked hard in the early summer heat, cleaning up plastic cups, bags, buoys, fishing nets, and other types of plastic waste.

In Korea, the campaign was conducted in cooperation with local governments across the country, covering areas such as Jungnangcheon Stream in Seoul, Gulpocheon Stream in Incheon, Sokcho Beach, Nongso Mongdol Beach in Geoje, and Namgang Riverside in Jinju. Over 11,000 participants collected approximately 27 metric tons of waste. In places like Gungpyeong-ri Beach in Hwaseong, Wonsando Beach in Boryeong, and the Palgeo Stream area in Daegu, large-scale campaigns involving 800 to 1,000 local church members helped raise community awareness about plastic pollution.

Local governments and people from all walks of life welcomed the actions taken by the church members who united for a sustainable future. On the 27th, former Gimpo Mayor Yoo Young-rok participated in the campaign at Gyejangcheon Stream in Gimpo. He remarked, “A lot of plastic waste flows into the West Sea through the Hangang River. Since Gimpo is situated along the Hangang River, it should take the lead in environmental efforts. I’m grateful that members of the Church of God are consistently contributing to this work.” On the same day, Kim Gye-hwan, Head of the Wonsan Branch Office in Boryeong City, joined the campaign at Wonsando Beach. He noted, “Trash washes up on the beach every day, so we’ve even assigned dedicated staff to clean it up. That’s why this kind of volunteer work is especially appreciated.” He also expressed hope that the campaign would enhance public awareness of marine litter.

Abroad, the campaign took place in 16 cities across 10 countries, including Sibu Waterfront Coastal Park in Sarawak, Malaysia; Katraj Lake area in Pune, India; and Dhobi River in Budhanilkantha, Nepal. Approximately 1,400 church members participated, collecting a total of 12 metric tons of plastic waste. Mitharam Adhikari, Mayor of Budhanilkantha, Nepal, stated, “To address the issue of plastic pollution, it is crucial not only to clean up waste but also to raise individual awareness. I hope this campaign continues in the future.” Missionary Everaldo Barbosa, who led the campaign with his church members at Materidade Park in Rio Branco, Brazil, said, “Participating in the campaign, I gained a deeper understanding of the seriousness of plastic pollution. Although it is a small effort, we will continue to volunteer to make a difference not only in our local community but across Brazil and the world.”

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