(BECQ) — Environmental Awareness Month will be observed across the CNMI throughout April, with the Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality’s Division of Environmental Quality leading a monthlong series of events and activities focused on environmental stewardship and community involvement.
This year’s theme, “Tåno yan Lina’la Inafa’måolek / Falúw Me Malaw Llól Eew Pilúúgh / Land and Life in Harmony,” emphasizes the deep connection between our people, culture, and environment, and reinforces the shared responsibility to protect the land, water, and are that sustain our communities.
Environmental Awareness Month officially kicked off with a Proclamation Signing on March 31, 2026, at Minatchom Atdao, followed by a community roadside waving to raise awareness across the island.
Throughout April, DEQ, in collaboration with partner agencies and organizations, will host a variety of events and activities designed to engage the public, promote environmental stewardship, and encourage community participation.
These events include:
• Saipan Island-Wide Cleanup (April 10-11)
• Environmental Expo (April 15-16)
• Movie Night at Sugar King Park (Free Admission; April 17; Doors open at 6:30 pm, Movie begins
at 7:00 pm)
• Rota Island-Wide Cleanup (April 17)
• Tinian Island-Wide Cleanup (April 28)
• Earth Walk on Earth Day (April 22; Registration from 4:30-5:30 pm at the 13 Fishermen Pavilion)
• Arbor Day Tree Planting (April 24; Micro Beach, Garapan)
• Environmental Laboratory Tours at BECQ (On-going throughout the month of April)
• Storm Drain Mural Contest (For students only – Registration through school)
• Community Art Mural Contest (Open to the public; Ages 15+)
These activities aim to raise awareness of environmental issues while providing opportunities for individuals, families, and organizations to actively contribute to the protection and preservation of the CNMI’s natural resources.
“Our theme this year acts as a call to restore balance. The island way of life reflects sustainability in practice–grounded in the understanding that our resources are finite and must be cared for responsibility,” said Zabrina Cruz, DEQ director. “By nurturing our land, reducing waste, protecting our reefs, and planting native trees, we are not only protecting the environment—we are preserving the way of life that defines our community.”
EAM continues to serve as a platform to strengthen partnerships among government agencies, schools, nonprofit organizations, and the community. Through education, outreach, and hands-on activities, DEQ encourages all residents to take part in fostering a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment.
For more information on events, schedules, and participation, please visit the DEQ website at http://www.deq.gov.mp/eam-2026.html, contact the EAM Co-Chair, Inas Aldan, at [email protected], or call DEQ at (670) 664-8500/01.
