For the second year in a row, Discovery Travel proudly organized the Phang Nga Coastal Clean Up Challenge at Khao Na Yak Beach, and this year’s event was an even greater success than the last!
In 2023, we were amazed to welcome over 100 volunteers, but in 2024, we nearly doubled that number with almost 200 passionate individuals. The response was so overwhelming that we had to turn away some volunteers due to limited boat space – a wonderful problem to solve for future events!
Uniting for a Cleaner Coastline
Our incredible volunteers, representing local businesses, hotels, and the wider community, gathered to clean a 1.5-kilometer stretch of Khao Na Yak Beach. In total, we collected more than 300 bags of trash, with specific amounts of 2,685 kg of general garbage, 206 kg of glass bottles, 70 kg of plastic, and 3 kg of dangerous waste.
The most common item we encountered was foam, which highlights the ongoing issue of non-biodegradable waste along our coastlines.
This remarkable effort significantly reduced the waste that would otherwise harm the delicate coastal and marine ecosystems. The growing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship in Phang Nga Province was clear from this impressive turnout.
Support from the Community and Local Leaders
We were honored to have the assistant governor of Phang Nga launch the event, showing the strong government support for sustainability efforts in the region. This year’s success was also thanks to the invaluable partnerships formed with local organizations. The Phang Nga TAT and the Tha Din Deang Community Tourism Project provided a delicious lunch to all participants, while the Phang Nga Tourism Association helped spread awareness, rallying support from hotels, tour companies, and government offices. The Hat Thai Muang National Park staff worked hard to ensure that all the collected trash was properly removed and disposed of.
Diving Deeper for Sustainability
While the beach cleanup was in full swing, the team from Big Blue Diving and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources focused on removing abandoned fishing nets from the coral reefs and dive sites nearby. These “ghost nets” are a serious threat to marine life and coral ecosystems, so their removal was a crucial part of the day’s activities.
Boats, Donations, and Volunteers: A Collaborative Effort
The Phang Nga Coastal Clean Up Challenge would not have been possible without the incredible support of local businesses and volunteers. Inb additon to our own fleet, additional boats were generously provided by Wow Andaman, Blue Seasons Marine, La Flora Group, and local villagers, ensuring that volunteers could access the cleanup site. Donations from local companies and individuals also played a significant role, covering event costs and contributing to future sustainability projects.
We’d like to extend a special thanks to the following businesses and organizations for their dedication:
- Budget Car Rental
- Chong Fah Resort
- Ramada Resort by Wyndham Khao Lak
- Khao Lak Merlin
- Khao Khai Nui and Bamboo Rafting
- Aloha Khao Lak
- Katathani Group
- Kalima Resort and Villas Khao Lak
- Katathong Golf Resort and Spa
- Sentido Khao Lak
- Khao Lak Laguna Resort
- Khao Lak Tripple
- Beyond Khao Lak
- Xtra Holiday Travel & Tour
- Khao Lak & Surrounding Areas
- Khao Lak Wonderland
- Mu Ko Similan National Park
- Outrigger Khao Lak Beach Resort
- Andaman Turtle Watch
Additionally, FED – Foundation for Education and Development provided both volunteers and financial support for the event, contributing to its success and future projects.
We also received generous donations from Tree House Koh Yao and Khao Lak Greenway, along with support from several kind-hearted individuals who believe in protecting our environment.
Thanks to everyone’s efforts, the Phang Nga Coastal Clean Up Challenge has made a real impact. As we look ahead, Discovery Travel is eager to continue fostering collaborations and promoting environmental sustainability in Phang Nga Province. With events like these, we’re not only cleaning up our beaches but also building a strong community dedicated to preserving this beautiful region.
We are grateful to all of our volunteers, partners, and sponsors. Together, we are making a meaningful difference!