How to Conduct Your Own Beach Cleanup
BY: STEPHANIE LICCIARDI, GROUP FOR THE EAST END ENVIRONMENTAL ASSOCIATE
Beach cleanup haul from Orient County Park.
Whenever I’m on the beach, I find it really difficult to ignore our beach pollution problem. As a kid, I’d run home with pockets full of pebbles, jingle shells, and beach glass. Now, as I leave the beach, I head directly to the trashcan with fistfulls of sandy plastic and other unnatural debris. If you want to help our East End environment, or your local environment, by picking up beach trash, here are some easy tips to follow:
1. Bring some bags to hold the trash. I usually bring a large reusable bag with me so I can sort the garbage at home. Another option is to bring a bag for recycling and a bag for trash so you can sort as you pick up.
2. Prioritize your safety.
Wear gloves. You might find needles, fishing hooks, fiberglass shards, or other sharp objects. Wearing gardening or work gloves will protect your hands and keep you safe. A trash picker tool can also be used.
Always wear sunscreen. Even if you go out on a shady, cold day, the sun’s rays can still burn you. Opt into using a mineral based, ocean-safe sunscreen so harmful chemicals don’t hurt you or contaminate natural areas.
Bring your reusable water bottle. It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re outside for long periods of time.
3. Pick your spot. You can find plastic on almost all of our beaches, but some have a much bigger problem than others. One of my consistent spots is the Orient County Park because so much trash washes up on the shore. Do you know of a spot that needs some extra love? Snap a picture and share it with the Group on Instagram or Facebook so we can spread awareness.
4. Don’t forget the small plastics. Tiny pieces of plastic, like bottle caps, can be hard to see when they are partially buried in the sand. Keep an eye out for these bits. They are just as important to remove as the soda cans and plastic bags.
5. Record what you have found. The Ocean Conservancy collects data in their Beach Cleanup Database.
6. Properly dispose of your finds. Sort recycling, trash, and any hazardous materials.
Can’t get to a beach? No problem. Our trash is everywhere, sometimes even in our own neighborhoods. You can follow these tips while you’re out for a walk around your neighborhood or on a trail. Every little bit helps.
If you do your own beach cleanup, tag the Group on social media and use #GFEEoutside.
COVID-19 Note: Practice extra caution if you choose to do a beach cleanup. Stay away from crowded areas. Wear a mask. Your safety matters most right now.