Over the past few years, an increasing number of people in East Auckland, both young and old, can be seen donned in yellow high-visibility vests, armed with garbage bags and a resolution to clean up their surroundings. They are volunteers from Earth Action Trust, a non-profit organisation committed to creating a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for future generations.
Through regular clean-ups, educational programmes, and community outreach, Earth Action Trust is not only tackling the litter and illegal dumping in the area but also encouraging stewardship of the environment within the local community. They are teaching children about the significance of clean air, water, and land, thereby instilling in them the sense of responsibility towards the environment from an early age.
But Earth Action Trust’s vision extends beyond environmental conservation. On their website, they state, “We want to support our community in being good stewards of the environment with the aim of improving both their wellbeing and their ability to contribute to the creation of a sustainable diverse future. We also aim to create employability, providing a multicultural space for learning, acquiring skills, and employment.”
The organisation operates as a high-employment social enterprise, improving socio-economic conditions for the most deprived and marginalised. Recognising the cultural diversity of New Zealand, Earth Action Trust aims to integrate it into their operation, affirming the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. Their commitment to inclusivity and community engagement is as central to their mission as their environmental efforts.
Earth Action Trust’s broad mission includes conducting research into waste minimisation and/or elimination, supporting agencies that aim to achieve zero waste goals, and providing educational programs on sustainability and environmental protection. Their activities collectively demonstrate their profound dedication to fostering a better, more sustainable future.
As residents and visitors to East Auckland, we can all play a part in Earth Action Trust’s vision. This can be through joining them on their clean-up operations, responsibly managing our waste, or even supporting their educational programmes. To learn more about how you can contribute, visit their website at www.earthactiontrust.org.nz.