There’s so much about July that we long for all year long, the sunshine, the Fourth of July, and if we’re lucky, a trip to the beach. But July also brings with it Clean Beaches Week (July 1-7). Though many have a special place in their heart for sandy toes, sandcastles, and wave jumping… the world's beaches are littered. Unfortunately, 14 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean EVERY year, equal to 1.12 million 18 wheelers, quite staggering!

But Clean Beaches Week is working to not only clean up our beaches with dedicated time for volunteer beach clean ups, but it’s also about considering our impact on the beaches and oceans. This isn’t just important for the Earth, but it’s especially important for us. Aquatic life in the oceans supports ~50% of the oxygen we breathe, 17% of the world’s meat consumption (fish), and American coasts support 45% of the U.S. economy. 

So, what do you say to learning a little bit, and maybe picking up a piece of trash or two during Clean Beaches Week? Learn more about Clean Beaches here: http://www.cleanbeaches.com. Discover some additional facts here: https://nationaltoday.com/clean-beaches-week/. And if you’re feeling like getting your toes sandy and doing good, search for a clean up near you!