Let’s Do It World, a global network with humble beginnings in Estonia, has once again demonstrated the positive influence of its tiny Baltic country of origin around the world.
On 20 September, Estonian embassies in more than 15 countries joined together to participate in World Cleanup Day, underscoring their commitment to tackling the global waste pollution crisis. From Italy to India, and from China to the Czech Republic, Estonian diplomatic missions joined millions of volunteers to clean up communities and raise awareness about the importance of environmental responsibility.
What started in 2008 as a national effort to clean up Estonia in a single day has since grown into the world’s largest civic action movement against mismanaged waste. This year, Estonia’s embassies have stepped up to show support in greater numbers than ever before. With embassies in Turkey, South Korea, Poland, Singapore, Georgia, and beyond, Estonian diplomatic missions were part of a global wave of cleanups spanning continents. The Estonian Ambassador to Norway also took part in the inaugural event for World Cleanup Day’s first year as an international day on the United Nations Calendar.
Pirgit Laanpuu, Deputy Head of Mission at the Estonian Embassy in the Czech Republic, shared her experiences from the event. “World Cleanup Day is very popular here in Prague, with many NGOs and companies being engaged to organise cleanups across the city. After participating in an NGO-organised cleanup last year, we were engaged to do our own this year and to invite other embassies to join us. We wanted to contribute to such a great initiative, especially since it has its roots in Estonia, which we’re very proud of. It is rewarding to know that you’re doing something valuable for the environment” she remarked.
Reflecting on what compelled the embassy to organise the initiative, Laanpuu noted, “I remember the very first Let’s Do It cleanup in Estonia in 2008. It generated so much interest, and gave society a positive feeling of doing something together, with really big results. It was shocking to see how much trash was collected from our natural surroundings, including forests and rivers. That experience stays with you, and you start seeing trash everywhere—it’s very educational.”
Laanpuu shared the lasting impact participating in cleanups has had on her daughter too, who has become much more aware of waste pollution since taking part in cleanups. “She quickly became aware of the trash around us and pointed it out herself, telling me we need to pick it up and put it in the garbage.”
In an interview for the World Cleanup Day broadcast, Margus Tsahkna, Estonia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, reflected on the movement's growth into a global initiative, remarking: “World Cleanup Day is a sign that if you have a great idea, you can change the world—even from a small country like Estonia.”
He expressed pride in the movement’s positive global impact, stating, “I’m very proud,” and shared his hope that more governments will take up the role of hosting the next World Cleanup Days: “It’s not about Estonia only. I hope that many other countries will join. We don’t want to keep it to ourselves, because this is global; this is a movement for connecting people.”
Tsahkna added, “As a member of the Estonian government, I’m saying that there should be great competition between governments to see who can get this initiative for the coming years. Because it’s something you can show as well; it’s not only talking—this is action.”
The participation of so many Estonian embassies has not only amplified the reach of World Cleanup Day but has also showcased the important role diplomacy can play in inspiring positive environmental action. Laanpuu noted that her cleanup has already sparked a desire for further action, with many new ideas emerging among the participating embassies, such as tree planting and other initiatives for greening the environment. “We started small this year, but I’m already thinking of how we can expand it next year to get even more embassies involved, as well as local people.” she stated.
Heidi Solba, President & Head of Global Network at Let’s Do It World, praised the embassies for their contribution: "We are proud to see the active involvement of Estonian embassies worldwide in supporting World Cleanup Day. As institutions representing Estonia’s commitment to environmental responsibility, Estonian embassies are sending a powerful message of solidarity with the global movement for a waste-free world.”
She continued: “Their participation underscores Estonia’s ongoing commitment to supporting civic movements that promote environmental stewardship. The embassies’ engagement amplifies the voices of millions working toward a cleaner planet, showcasing the essential role that institutions play in driving change."
World Cleanup Day may have started small in Estonia, but its impact in 2024 was truly felt in all corners of the globe, and keeps on growing. “I urge everyone to participate,” Laanpuu encouraged. “It might seem daunting at first if it’s not something you’re used to, but the sense of collectively doing something good for the environment is more fulfilling than anyone can predict.”
Let’s keep up the momentum; together, we are making a difference!
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