Rotary International Join Efforts to Rescue the Motagua River

The Motagua River, spanning over 300 miles from Guatemala to Honduras, faces significant pollution challenges, contributing at least 3% of global ocean plastic waste. Recognizing this critical issue, Rotary International joined the "Motagua Basin Alliance" in October 2023. Collaborating with countries, organizations, and partners worldwide, Rotary is dedicated to restoring the river and safeguarding the livelihoods dependent on it.
 

Our district proudly participates in this environmental initiative alongside the Rotary Club of Yankton as international partners. Recently, from September 13-18, Yankton Rotarians Mike Villanueva and Rich Burns, alongside counterparts from Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Canada, California, and Kansas, visited the Motagua River. Their mission: to understand the challenges and witness firsthand the efforts underway.

During their visit, Mike and Rich engaged with members of the Rotary Club of Puerto Cortes, leaders in the initiative. Together, they are spearheading a Global Grant aimed at removing plastics from beaches and oceans, recycling materials for global markets. Watch the video.

To delve deeper into this critical environmental effort or schedule a club presentation, please contact Rich at dg2023rotary.richb@gmail.com. Together, we can continue writing this story of environmental stewardship and global impact.