By: Laurel Marewibuel
Koror, Palau — What began as one person’s idea to pick up trash has grown into a movement. Gomizu Palau, a volunteer group dedicated to environmental cleanup, has completed its 200th community cleanup since its founding in 2020.
“It started when one person suggested that we start cleaning and picking up trash, and that’s when it all began,” said Yusuke Tsuchikawa of JICA. “We face challenges with funding and volunteers, but our number one goal is to make Palau clean and showcase its beauty by keeping it pristine.”
Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic by Michiyo Miyashita, owner of Palau Pacific Divers, Gomizu Palau has organized weekly Sunday cleanups in Koror for the past five years. The group has become a fixture in Palau’s environmental stewardship, bringing together locals and international residents to preserve the islands’ natural beauty.
Earlier this year, Gomizu Palau hosted the Palau Qualifiers for the SPOGOMI World Cup, attracting about 150 participants nationwide. The winning team will represent Palau at the finals in Tokyo on Oct. 29, competing against 34 countries.
“Reaching 200 cleanups is a major milestone,” members said. “Although Koror may look clean at first glance, each event reveals a surprising amount of hidden trash. We are grateful for the community’s support and invite more Palauans to join us.”
The next cleanup is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 21, at 5 p.m. at PCC Track and Field. Families and children are encouraged to take part.
Updates and photos of the group’s activities can be found on its Facebook page, “ごみーず パラオ gomizu PALAU.”