World Cleanup Day

World Cleanup Day is a global event where thousands of people in more than 150 countries take to the streets to pick up trash and clean up their communities. The goal is to make cities and natural spaces cleaner for everyone.

History

This movement began in Estonia in 2008. The event was held on May 3 and brought together more than 50,000 residents. Following the motto “one country, one day,” participants completed a massive cleanup in just five hours, removing more than 10 tons of waste, which was sorted and recycled. Over the next four years, the amount of garbage on Estonian streets decreased by a third.

The example set by Estonian volunteers inspired people worldwide, proving that collective effort can quickly transform a city. Every year, more countries joined the big cleanup, and eventually, the official date was set as the third Saturday in September.

Interesting Facts

• The most common small waste items in cities are chewing gum, cigarette butts, and single-use plastic bags. These materials are made from synthetic compounds and rarely decompose, leading to significant environmental pollution.
• It is estimated that around 13 million tons of plastic waste are dumped into the ocean each year.
• Singapore is considered the cleanest city in the world, relying on strict fines for littering—violators can be charged up to $1,000.

How to Take Part

Gather your family, friends, and colleagues to participate in the world’s largest community clean-up day. Help make your city a cleaner place! For more information, visit the official website: https://www.worldcleanupdaycuracao.org/about/.

Learn more about the environmental impact of household waste. Organize outreach activities at schools and universities to involve more people in the annual cleanup.

When is World Cleanup Day in 2025?

World Cleanup Day is observed on the third Saturday of September each year.

Observations