Protecting Paradise

How Careyes Foundation Tackles Marine Trash and Microplastics

The vibrant shores of Mexico’s Costalegre region are renowned for their beauty, but like beaches worldwide, they face a pressing challenge—marine trash and microplastics. The Careyes Foundation is taking bold strides to address this issue, combining community engagement, environmental education, and hands-on research to create lasting solutions.

Restoring Beauty, Protecting Wildlife

Since its foundation in 2013, the Careyes Foundation has organized community clean-ups all along the coast to conserve our beaches, waterways and marine life. In 2024, we led a series of impactful cleanups with 118 dedicated participants, removing over 550 kg of trash from beaches, the ocean floor, and the Cuixmala River.

We partner with Gilles Fortin, dive shop owner and avid conservationist, as well as local divers, to remove trash from the Chamela Bay sea floor. River cleanups are also key to tackling marine debris as over 80% of marine trash comes from land, often delivered by creeks and rivers.

Last year we painted and installed over 40 signs with local kids, inviting visitors to respect these public spaces. In particular we observed a significant reduction of dumping along the Cuixmala River. These cleanups not only restore the natural beauty of the area and engage locals in environmental protection, but also protect marine life from the dangers of plastic waste and reduce future microplastics.

“Do not pollute the planet. Recycle.”

“Turtles need your help.”

Inspiring Young Conservationists

Education is at the heart of the Careyes Foundation’s mission. Through our programs "Sea Turtle Guardians" and "Meet the Birds of the Costalegre," 4th, 5th and 6th-grade students of 12 local communities connect with charismatic native species, fostering a love for nature. After participating in these programs, kids are more likely to say they will reject poached sea turtle eggs and parrots!

They are also much more likely to say that they can make a difference by educating others. By teaching children about the importance of conservation—such as not littering and refraining from purchasing endangered species or their eggs—the Foundation empowers future generations to be stewards of their environment and champion against litter. 

Last year, we also engaged a group of high school students in the conservation of sea turtles and their habitat by hosting an overnight patrol and campout at Teopa Beach Sanctuary. These students then shared their learning with their communities through elementary school workshops, a community mural, a beach clean-up and conservation sign installation.

Science in Action: The Litter Scientists Network

For the past two years, the Careyes Foundation has implemented the Litter Scientists Network, an international hands-on research and community engagement program. In December, we hosted an inspiring talk by founder Dr. Martin Thiel.

Middle school students in Punta Pérula apply rigorous methodology to study the composition and source of marine waste before designing and executing mitigation and prevention projects. This initiative not only builds scientific literacy but also inspires young leaders to take responsibility for their environment. Last year, students presented their results to peers across the continent at the virtual Latin American School Congress I.

Through this project, the Careyes Foundation helped the school swap its use of disposable plates and cups for reusable alternatives, greatly reducing their non-recyclable waste. Check out the results from the 2023 study “In search of the origin of plastic bottles” here! 

A Cleaner Future for Costalegre

The Careyes Foundation’s multi-faceted approach—uniting cleanup efforts, environmental education, and community-led research—proves that meaningful change is possible. By cultivating a deep respect for nature, we are protecting Costalegre’s shores today and for future generations. Reach out to us to find out about our upcoming events and how to get involved!

From student to teacher: Meet Victoria and her story at Careyes Foundation

In a corner of Costalegre, where the Pacific touches the shore, a story of learning and returning unfolds in the classrooms of Careyes Foundation. This is the story of Victoria, who was once a student in our English for Children Program and has now returned as a teacher, driven by the belief that education is a bridge between dreams and reality.

Victoria fondly remembers her days as a student at the foundation:

"I have very fond memories of the teachers and the programs the foundation offers. For example, I had fun learning with Teacher Sara; she was always very dynamic and engaging in her teaching. We also eagerly awaited opportunities to participate in sea turtle releases."

For her, those moments were more than just grammar and vocabulary lessons; they were experiences that opened up a world of possibilities.

The decision to become a teacher came naturally. When she had the opportunity to teach at a middle school in Emiliano Zapata to practice her English, she discovered the joy of teaching.

"I realized that I loved working with children. Every day, my motivation is to keep moving forward, but at some point, I understood that it wasn't just about me—it was about so many little individuals whose lives I could brighten".

Now, from the other side of the classroom, she sees the difference between being a student and a teacher.

"As a student, all you have to do is pay attention and participate. But as a teacher, there's much more dedication involved. You have to ensure that children learn without getting bored, that the topics are engaging and dynamic, and, most importantly, that they understand the value of hard work and dedication."

Her experience at the foundation has inspired her to create a lively learning environment where English is taught with enthusiasm.

Every day, Victoria plays a crucial role in a program that impacts the lives of about one hundred children, each with their own unique story.

"They are the future, and as teachers, families, and community members, it is our responsibility to ensure they grow up with hope and opportunities."

For her, education in communities is a shared responsibility and essential for healthy, hopeful development. Her message to those who dream of teaching or working in community support programs is clear:

"Fight for what you want and dream of, especially if it means helping others in a healthy and prosperous environment. When faced with negativity, don't let it bring you down—let it make you stronger and more determined to move forward. Never let your fears take the place of your dreams."

For us, this story serves as a reminder that education transforms not only those who receive it but also those who impart it. In Costalegre and at Careyes Foundation, that transformation continues every day.

Remember that if you want to support our work, you can make a donation today.