Lee County Joins Worldwide Beach Cleanup Event This Saturday

This Saturday marks the start of a massive shoreline cleanup across Lee County. From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., volunteers will clean up the Sanibel Causeway and other local spots during the 36th Annual International Coastal Cleanup.

The cleanup unites people from near and far in a worldwide push to clear trash from beaches. Ocean Conservancy runs this global mission to protect marine areas.

"Plastic waste continues to be one of the greatest threats to marine life and ocean health," Keep Lee County Beautiful stated, according to Sanibel Captiva. "Yet, every small action matters. Removing a single bottle, straw, or plastic wrapper can help restore cleaner beaches and safer habitats for wildlife."

What started as a small cleanup has grown into something much bigger. Since the program began 36 years ago, volunteers have cleared over 380 million pounds of waste from coastlines worldwide. More than 18 million people have rolled up their sleeves to help.

Florida Power & Light leads the charge as this year's main supporter. Twenty-five local groups back the mission, including Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Florida State Parks, and the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation.

"Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier coast — one piece of trash at a time," Keep Lee County Beautiful added.

Ready to make a difference? Pick your spot from sites across Lee County. Visit the Keep Lee County Beautiful website for more info and sign up before Sept. 19.