Join the Movement: National Cleanup Day 2024 on the Crystal Coast!
When it comes to protecting our beautiful Crystal Coast, every bit of effort counts, and this year’s National Cleanup Day on September 21, 2024, offers the perfect opportunity to make a big difference! We all know that trash in waterways is one of the most damaging forms of litter—it pollutes our water supplies, harms local plant and animal life, and leaves a lasting impact on the entire ecosystem.
But here's the good news: even if you didn’t cause the litter, you can be part of the solution!
Clean up at Bogue Pier - a great community event for the whole family. Bring the kids and dogs!
My husband always says, “See the need to take the lead.” And there's no better way to take the lead than grabbing some gloves, a bucket, and a few friends and heading to a local waterway. Whether it's a creek, river, or the beach, it's time to make a positive impact.
Why Cleanup Efforts Matter for Waterways
Waterway cleanups do more than just make an area look nice—they're critical for ensuring that harmful pollutants don’t reach our oceans. Litter in these areas can have devastating consequences, not just for wildlife but for the health of the entire community. Removing trash before it flows into the ocean helps prevent marine life from becoming entangled or ingesting harmful materials like plastic and discarded fishing gear.
Join the Surfrider Foundation – Bogue Banks Cleanup
If you’re ready to take action, join Surfrider Foundation – Bogue Banks for their monthly cleanup on Saturday, September 14th at 9:30 AM at the Eastern Regional Beach Access. You can find the group at 2700 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle. No need to worry about supplies—they’ll provide everything you need, from gloves to trash bags. And they’ll even take care of sorting and counting the trash collected!
But why count and weigh the trash? Every bit of data collected during cleanups helps drive the policies and laws that reduce litter and protect our coastlines. By understanding what types of trash are most prevalent, environmental organizations can push for better regulations that make a real difference.
Be a Part of the Change
Participating in a beach or waterway cleanup is one of the easiest ways to give back to our planet. Plus, it’s dog- and kid-friendly, making it a perfect activity for families who want to set an example for the next generation.
So, this National Cleanup Day, bring your gloves, your dog, and your kids to a local waterway. Whether you join the Surfrider Foundation or organize your own community cleanup, your efforts will contribute to a healthier, more beautiful Crystal Coast.
For more information on local cleanup events, check out the Surfrider Foundation – Bogue Banks and the National Cleanup Day website.