More than 100 HSBC workers volunteered to clear a new path for nature appreciation at an East End reserve.

The volunteers joined members of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Arizona State University Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences at Cooper’s Island in St George’s.

The work, which took place on Wednesday, focused on restoring the natural ecosystem and making the space more welcoming to the public.

Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, who was present during the event, said: “Cooper’s Island is an important part of Bermuda’s natural heritage and protecting it requires consistent effort.

“The work taking place, removing invasive species and planting endemic vegetation, contributes to the ongoing conservation of this reserve.”

The work involved removing invasive trees and cane grass, planting endemic tree species, creating a cedar tree nature trail on the ASU BIOS plot and creating a bay grape canopy.

Volunteers also worked alongside Keep Bermuda Beautiful to remove litter from the beach and trails, as well as on Nonsuch Island

The work helped expand the public space and offer amenities, such as a new picnic bench at ASU BIOS’s plot.

More trees will be planted in the palmetto forest to expand beyond the 100 trees planted last year and prevent more invasive species from growing.

A spokesman for HSBC Bermuda said the volunteer day was part of the bank’s environmental activism.

He said the bank donated more than $250,000 a year to green projects, while its employees offered hundreds of hours of community service.

Work included planting forests, installing bluebird boxes and collecting litter.

Greg Garnier, chief executive of HSBC Bermuda, said the bank’s commitment to nature went beyond preserving a national park

He said: “It is about ensuring everyone in Bermuda has a right to nature.

“Nature supports our wellbeing, brings families and communities together and gives our children the opportunity to explore and enjoy the island we call home.”

Mr Garnier added: “I am also proud that HSBC has been associated with Cooper’s Island’s protection since 2006.”

Craig Carlson, the president and CEO of ASU BIOS, said: “The environmental challenges we face are too great for any one organisation to address alone.

“HSBC's leadership in bringing together partners, volunteers and conservation organisations is a powerful example of how collaboration can create lasting impact.”

Dr Carlson said he looked forward to working with HSBC after the bank became lead donor for the institute’s Climate Classroom programme, exposing about 250 M2 pupils to topics such as biodiversity, storm vulnerability and invasive species.