Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism and Ports Kenneth Bryan marked Earth Day 2025 with a call to action, urging all who live in or visit the Cayman Islands to take small but meaningful steps to protect the environment and preserve the natural beauty that defines the country.
In a statement delivered Tuesday morning, Minister Bryan reflected on the significance of this year’s Earth Day theme, “Our Planet, Our Power,” and highlighted the special responsibility that small island nations have in the face of global environmental challenges. He described the natural environment as not only a source of pride, but also a critical pillar of the Islands’ economy and way of life.
“Our natural environment is not just beautiful, it’s the foundation of our livelihood,” said Bryan. “It’s the lifeblood of our tourism industry, which supports thousands of jobs, businesses and families here in the Cayman Islands.”
He stressed the importance of protecting Cayman’s pristine beaches, native species and fragile ecosystems, noting that they are integral to the country’s identity and future prosperity. Bryan encouraged the public to lead by example through sustainable practices such as reducing waste, conserving water and using energy wisely.
“The actions we take today, big or small, shape the future of our environment, our economy and our way of life,” he said. “We have the power to make a difference, and it begins here, with each of us.”
Bryan called on residents, businesses and tourists to commit to one eco-conscious change, whether through reducing plastic use, supporting environmentally responsible companies, participating in cleanup efforts, or investing in energy-efficient technology.
“Together, we can ensure that our environment thrives and remains a vibrant asset for generations to come,” he said, closing with a message of hope. “As we protect the planet, we are also protecting the future. The power is within our hands.”
Earth Day is observed globally each year on April 22 to promote environmental awareness and action. In Cayman, it serves as a reminder of both the beauty of the Islands and the shared responsibility to safeguard it.
To commemorate the day, the Cayman Turtle Centre hosted a green sea turtle release at Governor’s Beach, offering the public a chance to witness conservation in action.
Celebrations will continue later in the week with the Earth Day 5K Fun Run/Walk on Sunday, April 27. The race begins at 6:00 a.m. on Safe Haven Drive, with free T-shirts and raffle tickets for participants. The raffle includes a grand prize of $2,000 KYD, and the top finishers in adult and children’s categories will receive medals and gift certificates, with the overall winner receiving a two-night stay at Morritt’s Hotel. T-shirt pickup will be available on April 25 and 26 from 5–7 p.m. at Airport Park, and in-person registration will also be accepted on site.
As part of the Cayman Islands’ wider Earth Day 2025 observance, the Chamber of Commerce will host its annual island-wide cleanup on Saturday, April 26. The event is expected to draw more than 3,000 volunteers who will help remove litter from beaches, parks, roadsides, and other public spaces.
Now in its 27th year, the cleanup is the largest of its kind in the Cayman Islands and reflects the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. This year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” highlights the threat of plastic pollution and the need for collective action.
Individuals and teams can register to participate at caymanchamber.ky. Businesses are also encouraged to support the initiative by providing supplies or sponsoring cleanup teams.
