One planet, one ocean, one chance to keep it clean.
Every year, shores and waterways around the world suffer under the heavy burden of pollution plastics, cigarette butts, food wrappers, bottle caps, straws and countless other items that don’t belong in nature. International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICC) is humanity’s opportunity to change that. In 2025, this global movement will take place on Saturday, September 20 and is expected to unite millions of volunteers worldwide to clean up beaches, rivers, streams, parks and neighborhoods.
International Coastal Cleanup Day was founded in 1986 and is one of the largest annual environmental efforts in the world, initiated by the Ocean Conservancy. Its goal is twofold to remove trash from beaches and waterways and just as importantly to document what is collected. This data is crucial because it helps scientists, policymakers and communities understand the most problematic types of waste, where it comes from and how to prevent future pollution.
As global plastic production and marine debris continue to rise, it is extremely important to take action now. Plastics don’t biodegrade, instead they break down into smaller microplastics that infiltrate ecosystems and even human food chains. That’s why the 2025 theme, #SeaTheChange, is so important. It reminds us that every action taken to reduce plastic waste, no matter how small, contributes to a larger transformation for our oceans and our planet. This year calls on individuals, communities and nations not only to clean up coastlines but also to change the habits and policies that fuel the plastic crisis.
Since its beginning, ICC has witnessed the involvement of millions of volunteers and the removal of hundreds of millions of pounds of trash worldwide. Yet, the scale of pollution demands more participation, more awareness and more lasting behavioral change. Everyone can take part. Many cities and organizations are coordinating beach, riverbank, mangrove or urban cleanups. September 20 is the official date but many activities take place before or after. You can also organize your own cleanup by getting friends, families, schools or community groups involved. A beach is not essential cleaning up streets or streambanks also prevents waste from reaching waterways.
Recording what is collected is just as important as removing it. Using apps or data cards to track your trash helps inform policy, corporate responsibility and waste reduction strategies, while giving volunteers a clearer sense of the impact they are making. Reducing single use plastics is another powerful way to help. Refuse straws, choose reusable bottles and avoid disposable packaging. Small choices add up.
International Coastal Cleanup Day is more than a single day. It is a movement toward cleaner coasts and healthier oceans. The data collected supports legislation, informs policy and helps businesses rethink packaging and waste management. As more people join the effort, the message becomes louder, our coasts are worth protecting, our environment deserves respect and every piece of trash we pick up or avoid throwing counts. Together, we can #SeaTheChange and create a cleaner, healthier future.
