Ten years ago, the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) found that 51.5% of the trash in Bay Area streams is plastic. We know that what gets into our streams ends up in the Bay and ocean. Charles Moore, the first scientist to report on plastic pieces in the North Pacific Gyre, has found that the concentration of plastic particles has increased 10-fold since his first study in 2000. Coastal Cleanup Day is dedicated to clearing this trash from our waterways, to save our eyes and save the ocean.

The assessment by the RWQCB found an average of three pieces of trash along every foot of our streams, so our work is daunting. As the public wakes up to the costs of thoughtless behavior, more and more people are becoming thoughtful. Picking up litter is a first step. Getting people to stop littering is another crucial step.  Like two feet walking, these steps together will bring the most rapid progress.

WHERE TO GO:
The Bay Area has scores of cleanup sites. You will want to choose one close to home, to minimize your greenhouse gas emissions.  If you live in eastern Marin County, join us at McNear’s Beach, where we have worked for the last 11 years, or Pickleweed Park in San Rafael’s Canal District, identified by Save the Bay as one of the six most littered spots in the entire Bay Area.

Reservations required for McNear’s Beach.  The beach is a beautiful place to work, and very popular. Space is limited so RSVP to info@greensangha.org if you wish to join our team!  UPDATE:  All spaces are taken.  RSVP if you want to be put on the waiting list.  Or, check out this map of all sites in Marin County, including China Camp, Mahon Creek, and San Rafael Creek by kayak!

Please note:  Other sites may begin at 9 am.

WHAT TO BRING:
Wear sturdy shoes, bring gloves, wear a hat and other sunscreen as needed, and be prepared for a balmy morning or foggy wind.  Some sites have water on hand (such as the drinking fountain at McNear’s Beach).  If you need to bring your own water, please bring your reusable canteen.  Reusable, non-plastic containers are part of the solution!

THANK YOU!
Every year, volunteers are deeply gratified to see the effects of their efforts.  It’s a purifying experience to do this work with so many like-minded souls.