Coastal clean-up services have already begun.

The Coastal Prevention and Maritime Cleaning Service has started the 2024 campaign on the 1st of May, a month earlier than usual, with the aim of maximizing the collection of waste along the coasts of the Balearic archipelago.

This year a hybrid diesel-electric boat has been introduced as part of the fleet, marking a step forward in the commitment of the Regional Ministry of the Sea and Water Cycle to adopt cleaner and more efficient technologies.

This Wednesday, May 1st, the service was launched with the five coastal-type vessels in operation: two in Mallorca, and one on each of the islands of Menorca, Eivissa and Formentera. These first operations will be complemented next week with the beach-type boats, designed for the busiest bathing areas.

The beach boats (17), known as 'Virot', are specially equipped to operate in shallow waters and are ideal for collecting small floating debris, commonly found less than 1/4 mile (between 20 and 300 meters) from the shore. Their safety and maneuverability make them ideal for working in this nearshore area, covering a total daily route of between 15 and 18 miles.

On the other hand, the 'Pelican' type littoral vessels (5) cover both the operational range of the 'Virot' and areas further offshore, up to 5 miles from the coast. These are slightly larger and faster, can carry more waste and have the capacity to cover more miles of coastline in less time, with a total daily route of between 25 and 30 miles.

The campaign will run until the 30th of September, with daily operations from 08:00 to 15:00 hours. In emergency situations, vessels will be available at any time of the day and can be assembled from different zones in the affected area. In addition, from the 1st of October to the 30th of April, there will always be a towing vessel ready to move to emergency areas.