As we look forward to enjoying the natural beauty of summer, we must not forget the looming threat of trash, particularly plastic waste, to our beaches and oceans. This is not just an eyesore, but it also poses a grave danger to marine and beach life across the globe.
The current estimate suggests that there are more than 5.25 trillion pieces of litter in our oceans, and this number continues to rise. The impact of this garbage on our beaches and seas is staggering. Countless sea creatures, birds, and fish get entangled in plastic nets and rings, and they frequently consume toxic fragments of plastic. More often than not, these incidents prove to be fatal.
However, there is hope. With concerted efforts to reduce plastic usage and with some outstanding organizations dedicated to keeping our beaches and oceans clean, we can make a difference. You too can contribute this summer by adopting a few simple habits to help keep our beaches pristine.

Discover how you can make a difference in keeping Maryland's beaches clean and safe! Get involved today.

Coastal Conservation Association: https://www.ccamd.org/chesapeake-cleanup-project/

Ocean City Maryland Surfrider: https://oceancity.surfrider.org/

Maryland Department of Natural Services: https://dnr.maryland.gov/ccs/Pages/marine-debris.aspx

More about plastic debris in the ocean: https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/ocean-trash-525-trillion-pieces-and-counting-big-questions-remain