Why – It’s estimated that up to 13 million metric tonnes of plastic ends up in the ocean each year, or the equivalent of a rubbish truck load every minute. Fish, seabirds, sea turtles and marine mammals can become entangled in or ingest plastic debris, causing suffocation, starvation and drowning. Marine plastic pollution has impacted at least 267 species worldwide, including 86 percent of all sea turtle species, 44 percent of all seabird species and 43 percent of all marine mammal species.

How – Make it a regular part of each club race day that sailors, supporters and volunteers spend some time cleaning up their local beach or shore front. Be sure to involve all members from those on the committee through to new learn to sail members.

 

Consider posting it on your community Facebook page and create a regular beach cleanup for your club and community or make it a regular part of your coaching programme.

Create a club data collection board that shows the volume and types of rubbish collected over time so members can see the impact they’re having.