Queen Elizabeth II has recognised Maltese Mark Galea Pace as the Commonwealth Point of Light Winner for arguably one of the most wholesome reasons.

Mark Galea Pace is a fitness instructor and environmental activist, who set out on a solo three-day long boat trip, to clean beaches and raise awareness about marine litter polluting the sea. He was raising money for a local NGO called Nature Trust Malta, who are committed to the conservation of Maltese nature. They promote environmental awareness and manage areas of natural and scientific interest.

While completing the three-day challenge, Mark collected no less than 52 bags and 20 jerry cans full of rubbish, and has since embarked on additional solo clean-ups around the island, inspiring large groups of volunteers in Malta to kayak around the archipelago and gather rubbish from the sea and beaches.

“It gives me great pleasure to recognise Mark Galea Pace’s achievement and commitment to improving the environment for all. His solo, three-day kayaking journey around Malta, collecting over 50 bags of rubbish and raising money for environmental charities demonstrates what an impact one person can have,” said Katherine Ward, the British High Commissioner to Malta.