California to hold coastal clean-up day on September 21 with local cities seeking volunteers

Organizers encourage participants to bring reusable bags, gloves, and water bottles to help reduce plastic waste.Photo byCristina Anne CostelloonUnsplash

Berkeley residents are invited to join the statewide effort to clean up local waterways during Coastal Cleanup Day on Saturday, September 21, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Volunteers will gather to collect trash and plastic pollution along the Berkeley Waterfront, Aquatic Park, and Brickyard Cove, helping to beautify the city and protect its environment.

Participants can register online or in person on the day of the event. Those under 18 will need a waiver signed by a legal guardian. The event will kick off with safety training at Shorebird Park Nature Center or Brickyard Cove, where volunteers will receive cleanup supplies if they are unable to bring their own.

Organizers encourage participants to bring reusable bags, gloves, and water bottles to help reduce plastic waste. Prizes will be awarded for the most unusual trash found, with last year’s winner discovering a jeweled belt. Data collected by volunteers through the Clean Swell App or data cards will contribute to global research on pollution.

Limited parking is available, and attendees are encouraged to use public transportation or bike to the event.