Environmental organizations are mobilizing community members for Coastal Cleanup Day on September 23, 2023, in San Diego. Volunteers are invited to participate in a cleanup event along Rose Creek in Pacific Beach from 09:00 to 12:00. The initiative is a collaboration among We Clean Trails, Friends of Rose Creek, and I Love A Clean San Diego, aimed at protecting local waterways.
According to Karin Zirk, executive director of Friends of Rose Creek, the impact of plastic pollution is alarming. “By 2050, there could be more plastic than fish by weight in the world’s oceans if we don’t defend our waterways from litter,” she stated. This makes the cleanup effort crucial for safeguarding marine life and maintaining the health of the ecosystem.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own wagons, buckets, work gloves, and reusable water bottles to minimize waste during the event. Volunteers will meet at Mission Bay High School, located at 2475 Grand Ave., in the faculty parking lot on the east side of the campus, which overlooks Rose Creek. Ample parking is available on Grand Avenue and in the lot off Lee Street.
The organizers emphasize sustainability, aiming to achieve a “zero waste” goal for this year’s cleanup. Zirk added, “We would love to be as close to ‘zero waste’ as we can this year and you can help.” To facilitate waste transport, bringing wagons is highly recommended. Participants should wear closed-toed shoes, long pants, and long sleeves for safety, and they are reminded to bring their reusable water bottles. Complimentary drinking water and healthy snacks will be provided at the event.
For volunteers wishing to prepare in advance, registration is available at CleanupDay.org, although sign-ups will also be accepted on the day of the event. It is important to note that anyone under 18 years old must have a parent or guardian sign their waiver. Waivers can be downloaded beforehand or completed on-site.
This annual cleanup not only fosters community involvement but also raises awareness about the environmental challenges facing San Diego’s waterways. By participating, volunteers contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for both residents and wildlife.
