#SeaTheChange at ICC 2024

Uniting for Ocean Health: A Global Movement

International Coastal Cleanup Day is a global event held annually on the third Saturday of September. It’s a day dedicated to raising awareness about marine pollution and encouraging action to protect our oceans and coasts. Volunteers from all around the world come together to clean up beaches and coastal areas, preventing debris from harming marine life and ecosystems.

Leading the Charge for Cleaner Coasts

International Coastal Cleanup Day is a global movement dedicated to tackling marine pollution. Held annually on the third Saturday of September, this year’s event falls on September 21st. What began over 35 years ago in Texas with a small group of passionate individuals has grown into a worldwide initiative, mobilizing millions of volunteers to clean up beaches and coastal areas.

The origins of International Coastal Cleanup® date back to 1986, inspired by Ocean Conservancy’s groundbreaking report, Plastics in the Ocean: More than a Litter Problem. Recognizing the urgent need to document and eliminate ocean trash, these early pioneers organized the first cleanup with a simple yet powerful idea: not only to collect litter but also to record each item. This data-driven approach helped identify pollution sources and develop strategies to combat them, turning a small local effort into a global movement united in the mission to protect our oceans.

The Power of Coastal Cleanups

Coastal cleanups are more than just picking up trash—they are essential for the health of our oceans and the preservation of marine ecosystems. Here’s why they matter:

Guardians of the Sea
Plastic waste poses a significant threat to marine life. Animals can become entangled in debris or ingest it, leading to injuries or death. By removing trash, we protect these vulnerable species and their habitats.

Nature’s Keepers
Clean beaches support diverse ecosystems. Removing debris creates safer environments for nesting sea turtles, birds, and other wildlife.

Healthy Shores, Healthy Lives
Polluted beaches can harbor harmful bacteria and microplastics, posing risks to humans. Cleanups help keep these areas safe for recreational use.

Building Awareness, One Cleanup at a Time
Participating in a cleanup raises awareness about marine pollution and encourages sustainable practices in our daily lives.

Global Impact, Local Action
Events like International Coastal Cleanup Day have a far-reaching impact, highlighting the urgent need to address marine pollution on a global scale.

Ride the Wave: #SeaTheChange at ICC 2024

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue affecting our oceans, with one in three fish caught for human consumption now containing plastic. Shockingly, 90% of plastic is derived from fossil fuels, and 80% of it ends up on coastlines within a month, causing serious harm to coastal environments and industries. In regions like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, 80% of the plastic comes from discarded fishing gear. Even more concerning are microplastics—tiny particles that result from the breakdown of larger plastic debris—which are ingested by marine life, disrupting ecosystems, and impacting the ocean's ability to produce oxygen and sequester carbon.

By participating in International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2024, you're taking direct action to preserve critical habitats and combat the broader issue of plastic pollution in our oceans. Both Shell Key and Egmont Key, where our cleanups will take place, are vital habitats for wildlife, particularly birds. These islands not only provide nesting grounds but also serve as essential stopover points for migratory species. The health of these ecosystems is intricately linked to the overall well-being of our oceans.

Shell Key Cleanup: Join us on this pristine barrier island, a crucial spot for wildlife, especially birds. By removing debris, you’ll help preserve its delicate ecosystem.

Egmont Key Cleanup: This historic island, accessible only to Egmont Key Alliance members, also needs our help. Participate in a members-only cleanup and contribute to the protection of its unique environment.

Be the Change: Join the Movement

On September 21st, we invite you to be part of the solution. Whether you join us on Shell Key, participate in the Egmont Key cleanup, or organize a beach cleanup in your area, your efforts will make a difference. Let’s work together to create cleaner, healthier oceans for future generations.