Every year, on the third Saturday of September, people around the world come together for International Coastal Cleanup Day—a global event dedicated to cleaning up our beaches, rivers, and waterways. This day isn’t just about picking up trash; it’s about taking action to protect our oceans and the wildlife that depend on them. If you’re looking to make a positive impact on our planet, here’s how you can get involved in this important initiative.

Our oceans are facing a plastic pollution crisis, with millions of tons of trash entering the seas every year. This debris not only mars the beauty of our coastlines but also poses a serious threat to marine life. Birds, fish, and other ocean creatures can mistake plastic for food, leading to injury or even death. By participating in a coastal cleanup, you’re helping to remove harmful debris and prevent it from causing further damage.

The first step in joining International Coastal Cleanup Day is to find an event near you. Many organizations and community groups host cleanups on this day, and there’s likely one happening in your area. A quick online search or a visit to the official International Coastal Cleanup website will help you locate a nearby event. If you don’t live near a coast, don’t worry—there are often cleanups organized along rivers, lakes, and other waterways as well.

Once you’ve found a cleanup event to join, it’s time to gather your supplies. Most cleanup organizers will provide basic materials like gloves, trash bags, and sometimes even buckets or sifters. However, it’s always a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes. Some participants also bring reusable gloves or trash pickers to minimize waste and make the process easier.

International Coastal Cleanup Day is more impactful when more people get involved, so don’t hesitate to spread the word! Invite your friends, family, and coworkers to join you. Share information about the event on social media, and encourage others to participate in their local cleanups. The more people we have working together, the cleaner our coastlines will be.

Cleaning up the beach doesn’t have to be all work and no play. Many cleanup events incorporate fun activities like contests, educational talks, or beach games to make the day enjoyable for everyone. Take this opportunity to learn more about the types of debris you’re collecting and the impact it has on the environment. Some groups even use apps to track and categorize the trash they collect, turning the cleanup into a citizen science project.

While International Coastal Cleanup Day is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference, the effort shouldn’t stop there. Use this day as a springboard to adopt more sustainable habits in your daily life. Reduce your use of single-use plastics, properly dispose of waste, and participate in local cleanups whenever possible. Every small action contributes to a healthier planet.

International Coastal Cleanup Day is more than just a one-day event—it’s a global movement that empowers individuals to take action for our oceans. By participating, you’re not only helping to clean up your local environment but also raising awareness about the importance of ocean conservation. So, grab your gloves, rally your friends, and join the millions of volunteers worldwide in making our coastlines cleaner and safer for everyone.