California’s Coastal Cleanup Day, the state’s largest annual volunteer event, is set to take place this Saturday. This year marks the 41st anniversary of the event, which aims to improve the environment and protect wildlife by removing litter from beaches, lakes, streams, and parks across the state. To boost participation, which has declined since the COVID-19 pandemic, the California Coastal Commission is introducing a new incentive: prizes.
Participants will have the chance to win various rewards by finding special “trash” items hidden at cleanup sites. According to the California Coastal Commission, these prizes include $1,000 in cash, luxury hotel stays, an e-bike, sports tickets, and more. Eben Schwartz, the marine debris program manager, described the event as “the world’s largest scavenger hunt.”
The event will take place from 9 a.m. to noon, with cleanup sites available in all 58 counties. Volunteers are encouraged to bring gloves and a bucket, though site coordinators will provide supplies if needed. Over the past 40 years, more than 1.8 million volunteers have collected over 27 million pounds of debris. Recent laws banning smoking on state beaches and single-use plastic bags have contributed to cleaner beaches.
Schwartz expressed optimism about this year’s turnout, expecting over 50,000 participants. To join the cleanup effort, individuals can sign up at coastalcleanupday.org.
Recent Comments