KOROR, Palau — Residents will have the chance to clean up the environment, compete in a new sport, and win a fully funded trip to Japan as the SPOGOMI trash-picking competition comes to Palau on Sunday, May 18, 2025.
The event, set to take place at Ernguul Park in Koror, is part of an international campaign that began two years ago to raise awareness about proper waste management and recycling through competitive litter collection. More than 30 countries have joined the movement.
The winning team from Palau will earn a spot in the SPOGOMI World Cup 2025, scheduled for Oct. 27–31 in Japan. Travel expenses for the championship will be covered by The Nippon Foundation.
Teams consist of three members, with at least two being Palauan nationals or permanent residents who have lived in Palau for more than five years. Participation is free, and organizers will provide t-shirts and light refreshments to all participants.
The event is coordinated and sponsored by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Bureau of Public Works, the Koror State Government, Project Change for Blue, and the SPOGOMI World Cup 2025 organizers. (By: L.N. Reklai)