San Diego’s shores shimmer under the afternoon sun, but closer inspection reveals an unsettling truth—littered plastic bottles, fishing debris, and food wrappers disrupt the pristine beauty. To tackle this growing concern, the Surfrider Foundation recently hosted a beach cleanup at Ocean Beach, drawing dozens of residents and students eager to make a difference.

One of Surfrider’s core values emphasizes cultivating leadership within its volunteer network. By empowering individuals to take initiative in their own communities, the foundation builds a resilient coastal protection movement. This philosophy aligns with their belief in inclusivity and accessibility—highlighting that oceans and beaches belong to everyone, and everyone has a role to play in protecting them.

The cleanup, part of Surfrider’s ongoing initiative to protect the ocean and coastal ecosystems, united volunteers of all ages. Sarah Lopez, a college sophomore said: “I’ve always loved coming to the beach, but seeing it littered breaks my heart. Volunteering is my way of giving back to a place that feels like home.”

Joana Guerra, Surfrider’s San Diego Chapter Manager, highlighted the importance of these community-driven efforts. “Beach cleanups are a small but meaningful part of our broader mission. They spark conversations about sustainability and inspire participants to adopt better habits, from reducing plastic use to supporting local conservation policies.” Guerra said.

The impact of the day’s work was tangible—over 200 pounds of trash collected in just a few hours. Core volunteer Ana Tripp, at a beach cleanup organized by the Surfrider Foundation, reflects on her experience. “For me the most important part is getting the trash off the ocean floor or around the city.” Volunteers are the backbone of community-driven environmental initiatives, dedicating their time and energy to protecting San Diego’s coastline.Volunteer Ben Azuro said: “Seeing the immediate change we create keeps me coming back. It’s a reminder that collective effort can tackle even the biggest challenges.” Tripp said.

Beach cleanups, such as those organized by the Surfrider Foundation, are more than just a way to clear litter—they are powerful opportunities for advocacy and education. For students, participating in these eco-trips reinforces the importance of environmental stewardship and creates space to learn about the impacts of pollution firsthand. Beyond the cleanup, spreading awareness, engaging peers, and advocating for stronger conservation policies can amplify these efforts.

Students are encouraged to use these experiences as a foundation for change, whether by joining ongoing initiatives, organizing their own events, or simply making sustainable choices in daily life. Together, these small but vital actions contribute to safeguarding coastal ecosystems for future generations.

Even small changes, such as using reusable water bottles or avoiding plastic bags, can have a significant impact. By starting with simple steps, everyone can contribute to creating a cleaner environment.