Where safe, small cleanups can happen, volunteers like you are tracking their impact, collecting important data on the amount and types of trash collected and submitting it all through Ocean Conservancy’s app, Clean Swell. Explore the map to see where small cleanups are contributing to a global movement, whether at the beach or not!
Ocean Conservancy is looking forward to safely celebrating the 2020 International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) with YOU—a global community of ocean advocates! During the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, we all must focus on staying safe and healthy. This year we are together apart, for our communities and for our ocean. We are asking ocean lovers everywhere to #CleanOn:
On this page, you will find resources that allow you, your family, friends and community, opportunities to make an impact during the 2020 ICC season. From engaging in the spirit of the movement from home, or cleaning up your neighborhood or local waterway , the ocean – and the wildlife and communities that depend on it—thank you for your participation.
![]() Identify a safe location to clean where social distancing is easily achievable. Think ahead about where you will properly dispose of trash at the location you choose. Monitor your health and the health of your family members before considering a cleanup of any size. |
![]() Gather materials needed. This includes proper Personal Protective Equipment (masks and gloves), hand sanitizer, grabbers, trash bags, closed toed shoes and a reusable water bottle. |
![]() If you are able, please help us collect important data on the types and amount of trash you remove. Download the Clean Swell application on your phone or other smart device. Be sure to “Allow” location services while using the app. |
![]() Safely collect trash using gloves, and take pictures to document your efforts. Never pick up any trash items that you are not comfortable with. |
![]() After you finish collecting items, carefully remove gloves and wash hands and arms with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. |
![]() Follow steps on the Clean Swell app to review and submit your data. Data automatically submit to Ocean Conservancy’s database when you see a “Thank You!” screen. |
![]() Properly dispose of items collected. Do not place trash bags in overflowing bins. This may cause items to fly away and end up back in the water. |
![]() Immediately and thoroughly sanitize any gear used during the cleanup including grabbers, gloves and buckets. |
At its core, the International Coastal Cleanup is about people: the incredible community of people like you, who care about our ocean’s health and strive to keep it free of plastic pollution and trash. If participating in a cleanup activity is not an option for you this year, there are other ways to take action! Here’s how you can take part, from anywhere:
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