Summary:
1. The ABQ BioPark participated in the International Coastal Cleanup, a global effort to clean up trash from coastlines.
2. Over 17 million volunteers have collected over 350 million pounds of trash since the cleanup began 35 years ago.
3. The ABQ BioPark had 25 volunteers, including students and staff, who collected 23 pounds of trash at Tingley Beach.
4. Trash, such as cigarette butts, fishing lines, plastilinesod containers, and clothing, can be harmful to harm communities.
5. Everyone can help protect wildlife and clean waterways by picking up litter in any location where the impact of human activities on our environment is increasingly evident; the need to protect and preserve our natural habitats has become more crucial than ever in bark, a renowned institution dedicated to wildlife conservation, recently participated in the International Coastal Cleanup. This global initiative aims to coastlines of harmful trash. Let’s dive into the unique And fascinating aspects of this event. Each of us can make a difference in protecting our planet.
The International Coastal Cleanup’s Remarkable Impact:
For over 35 years, the International Coastal Cleanup has united millions of volunteers worldwide, working towards a common goal: a cleaner and healthier environment. Since its inception, this global effort has witnessed over 17 million individuals participating with an astounding 350 million pounds of trash together. This staggering togethering increases the complexity of the problem but also emphasizes the power of collective action in preserving our planet’s natural beauty.
The ABQ BioPark Joins the Cause:
Last month, the ABQ BioPark proudly joined the International Coastal Cleanup, demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship. A dedicated group of 25 volunteers participated in this inspiring initiative, including enthusiastic students from PAPA Charter High School’s Honor Society and Student Council and andioPark staff.
Tingley Beach and the Trash They Found:
The chosen location for the cleanup was Tingley Beach, a popular recreational area that serves as a vital habitat for numerous wildlife species. The volunteers diligently scoured the area for two hours, collecting an impressive 23 pounds of trash. The eclectic mix of debris they encountered was both eye-opening and concerning.
Among the most prevalent items retrieved were 1076 cigarette butts, a haunting reminder of the detrimental impact of smoking on our environment. These seemingly small remnants pose a significant threat to marine life, as the toxic chemicals they contain can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic creatures.
In addition to cigarette butts, volunteers also unearth4 meters of fishing line, a danger to both marine ls and birds who can becowhichentangled, resulting in injuries or even death. Plastic food containers, numbering 63, were found scattered across the beach, a stark reminder of our society’s over-reliance on single-use plastics. The volunteers also encountered other intriguing items: a substantial 4′ x 6′ piece of plastic mesh, a lonely eggshell, 109 plastic bottle tops, 6 stray pieces of clothing, 20 plastic utensils, and 65 metal bottle caps.
The Far-Reaching Impact of Litter:
One might wonder why a cleanup effort focused on coastal areas extends to locations far from the shorelines. The answer lies in understanding the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the way trash travels. For example, Litter city sidewalks go into storm drains and eventually reach rivers, streams, and, ultimately, the ocean by picking up individual roles in protecting wildlife and communities that rely on clean waterways.
You Can Make by picking up litter anywhere, anytime a Difference:
Feeling inspired, are you feeling ABQ BioPark’s involvement in the International Coastal Cleanup? You can have a significant impact, too, no matter where you live. By taking a few simple steps, you can contribute to the cleanliness of our environment and the well-being of wildlife:
1. Grab a bag and a pair of gloves: Any time you head outside, be prepared to pick up litter you encounter along the way. Whether it’s a walk through the park, a trip to the grocery store, or a hike in the woods, make a habit of carrying a bag and gloves, ready to take action.
2. Educate and engage: Spread awareness about the importance of keeping our environment clean. Talk to friends, family, and coworkers about the detrimental effects of litter on wildlife and encourage them to join your efforts.
3. Lead by example: Be a role model for others by practicing responsible waste management. Reduce reliance on single-use plastics, recycle diligently, and dispose of trash properly. Setting an example can inspire those around you to follow suit.
4. Participate in community cleanup events: Seek out and join local cleanup initiatives in your area. It’s an excellent opportunity to make a tangible impact while connecting with like-minded individuals who share your passion for environmental conservation.
Our world’s oceans and coastlines harbor an incredible array of life, and our responsibility is to preserve it for future generations. The ABQ BioPark’s participation in the International Coastal Cleanup showcases the power that each powerhouse has. We can make a significant difference in safeguarding our natural heritage by taking small but meaningful actions, such as picking up litter, influencing others, and supporting community cleanups. Let’s all step up and be the guardians our environment needs. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier planet for everyone to enjoy.
Re
International Coastal Cleanup. Ocean Conservancy. Retrieved from https://oceanconservancy.org/trash-free-seas/international-coastal-cleanup/
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Source Description
Last month, the ABQ BioPark participated in the International Coastal Cleanup. Since its beginnings 35 years ago, more than 17 million volunteers have collected more than 350 million pounds of trash! Twenty-five volunteers, including teens from PAPA Charter High School’s Honor Society, Student Council, and BioPark staff, worked for over 2 hours at Tingley Beach. They collected 23 lbs, or 10.5 kg, of trash, consisting of 1076 cigarette butts, 124 m fishing line, 63 plastic food containers, 4′ x 6′ pieces of plastic mesh, 1 eggshell on eggshell, 109 plastic bottle tops, 6 pieces of clothing, 20 plastic utensils, 65 metal bottle caps and much more! You can help any place, any time: trash travels, so even picking up litter off a city sidewalk can help protect wildlife and communities that depend on clean waterways. If you’d like to read more about this project, check out https://oceanconservancy.org/trash-free-seas/international-coastal-cleanup/
