More than 900,000 pounds of trash were collected in 2019 on Coastal Clean Up Day – the most recent clean-up day - and this Saturday, volunteers on the Central and South Coasts will be aiming to beat that target at more than 27 sites from Carpinteria to Guadalupe.
Jill Cloutier, Explore Ecology's PR Director, says it’s a way to make a real difference to our oceans.
"By picking up trash, people are getting together and making a difference," she told KCLU. "In 2019, we had over 1200 volunteers in Santa Barbara County pick up over three tons in trash and recycling.
"Even though we might think, 'it's only a few of us picking up trash,' when we add up the numbers, it makes a big difference."
Cloutier added, "It's really exciting that Coastal Cleanup Day is back this year. We really missed seeing everyone last year."
"It's super fun and rewarding to get outside, enjoy nature, and make a difference," she said.
Coastal Cleanup is California's largest volunteer event.
Volunteers of all ages can participate at any of the 2021 cleanup sites.
Each site will have a captain on hand to provide necessary instructions and supplies.
Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own gloves, buckets, and other reusable cleanup supplies to lessen the plastic footprint.
Pre-registration is not required, but is encouraged here.
