This group of “ecozationists” conducted a beach cleanup on Hassel Island.A group of UVI graduate students dubbing themselves “ecozationists” (derived from the terms eco and organizations) spearheaded a pre-Christmas beach cleanup on St. Thomas’ Hassel Island. Joining the students in UVI’s Masters of Marine and Environmental Studies program were members of the UVI Green Ambassadors student group, representatives from tour operator Virgin Islands Ecotours, members of the Environmental Association of St. Thomas-St. John and a number of UVI faculty. The ecozationists kayaked to Hassel Island’s southeastern shore from a dock in Frenchtown. During three and one-half hours of sun, rain and cool breezes, the group collected enough debris – plastics, bottles, cans, food containers, etc. – to fill eight industrial-size garbage bags. Afterwards, the group took time for a quick tour of a historical building adjacent to the beach. Individuals interested in joining or supporting the UVI Green Ambassadors organization should visit the website: UVI Green Ambassadors.
