#Jamaica #Kingston #The Ocean Cleanup #Kingston Harbour #GraceKennedy

Introduction

On June 5, 2026, the GraceKennedy Foundation will host its 36th Annual Public Lecture in observance of World Environment Day. This lecture promises to shed light on the transformative Kingston Harbour Cleanup Project (KHCP), which is crucial for restoring one of the Caribbean's most significant natural resources. The event will feature influential figures from both the environmental and business sectors, including Caroline Mahfood, the CEO of the GraceKennedy Foundation, and Michael McCarthy, Managing Director of Clean Harbours Jamaica.

The Lecture

Titled "The Kingston Harbour Cleanup Project: From Vision to Reality," the lecture will emphasize strategic partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and scientific contributions that have driven Jamaica's initial large-scale initiative to combat solid waste pollution in Kingston Harbour. The KHCP has achieved remarkable results in its five-year span, successfully preventing nearly 13 million pounds of plastic and waste from entering this vital harbor.

Importance of the Project

Caroline Mahfood has stated, "This project demonstrates what can be achieved when science, business, and community come together around a shared purpose." The KHCP's funding from the internationally recognized non-profit organization, The Ocean Cleanup, exemplifies how global collaboration can yield positive changes in local environments. The initiative emphasizes that by working together, communities can tackle substantial environmental challenges effectively.

Continuing the Conversation

This year's lecture aims to continue conversations initiated during the Foundation's 2019 lecture titled "Clean Kingston Harbour: Pipe Dream or Pot of Gold?" This previous discussion heightened awareness about Kingston Harbour's environmental issues, setting a foundation for the ongoing dialogue on sustainability and resource restoration. The upcoming event aims to not only recap the KHCP's impact thus far but also to inspire ongoing commitment and collaboration in preserving Jamaica's natural resources.

Expert Presenters and Engagement

Joining Caroline Mahfood on stage will be esteemed participants, including Professor Mona Webber, who holds the GKF James S. Moss-Solomon Senior Chair in Environment at The University of the West Indies, and Michael McCarthy, making compelling contributions to the lecture. A special video message from Boyan Slat, the CEO and Founder of The Ocean Cleanup, is also anticipated to enrich the session's depth.

The session will be moderated by Professor Michael Taylor, the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology at The University of the West Indies, creating a robust engagement on the topic. This event is not just an opportunity for experts; members of the public are encouraged to join the discussion through a virtual livestream on GraceKennedy's YouTube channel. Registration can be completed at gkflecture2026.eventbrite.com, ensuring that the insights from this important lecture reach a broad audience.

Conclusion

The GraceKennedy Foundation's lecture is a testament to the importance of community action in conservation efforts. Through sharing knowledge and experiences, the event aims to inspire sustainable practices that can significantly influence not only Kingston Harbour but also environmental restoration efforts in the Caribbean at large. With pressing environmental challenges at hand, the message is clear: collective efforts can lead to impactful results, making restoration not only a possibility but an achievable goal.