Santa Barbara County residents are stepping up for the annual Coastal Cleanup Day on Saturday, September 21. Volunteers will meet at 37 designated sites from 9 a.m. to noon, working together to bag trash that threatens our beaches, parks, creeks and the marine mammals that call these waters home.
Why the cleanup matters
Organizers stress that even small buckets of waste add up to tons of debris removed before it can pollute the ocean. Last year, the most common item collected was a cigarette butt, followed by food wrappers, plastic bags and other single‑use plastics. After busy weekends, clothing, toys and other litter are also frequently found on the shoreline.
How to get involved
Anyone who wants to help can sign up through the Explore Ecology website. Volunteers are encouraged to bring reusable gloves, sturdy trash bags and a willingness to get their hands dirty. The event is family‑friendly, offering a chance for parents and children to teach stewardship of God‑created nature while enjoying the outdoors.
Locations and logistics
The 37 sites span the county, covering popular beaches as well as inland parks, creeks and waterways that funnel debris toward the ocean. Each site will have a volunteer coordinator to guide participants, provide safety instructions and ensure proper disposal of collected waste.
Community impact
Coastal Cleanup Day is part of a larger, worldwide effort coordinated by the California Coastal Commission and international partners. By removing trash locally, Santa Barbara County contributes to a global movement that protects ecosystems, supports tourism and upholds the biblical principle of caring for the earth.
What to expect
Volunteers can expect a morning of teamwork, conversation and a tangible sense of accomplishment. After the cleanup, bags of trash will be collected by local waste‑management crews and taken to recycling or landfill facilities, ensuring the debris is handled responsibly.
Looking ahead
Organizers hope this year’s cleanup will inspire ongoing stewardship projects, such as regular beach patrols, educational programs in schools and partnerships with local businesses to reduce single‑use plastics. The momentum built on Saturday can serve as a foundation for a cleaner, healthier coastal environment for generations to come.
For more details, registration information and a full list of cleanup sites, visit the Explore Ecology website.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
