Written by Christina Mink
On May 13, 2023, AYLUS members joined forces with Friends of the Bay in a dedicated effort to clean litter from Centre Island Beach. With the staggering amount of trash finding its way into the ocean every year, this collaborative cleanup aimed to combat the harmful consequences of marine pollution on both marine life and our local community.
The devastating impact of litter on our oceans cannot be ignored. Approximately 10 million tons of debris end up in our waters annually, and this number continues to rise, posing a significant threat to marine ecosystems. Marine creatures suffer immensely from the presence of litter, often mistaking it for food, which can lead to injury, malnutrition, and even death. Entanglement in trash also poses a serious risk to marine life, impairing their ability to survive and thrive.
The repercussions of marine pollution extend beyond the ocean’s borders, affecting humans in various ways. Navigational safety becomes compromised as debris poses hazards to ships and vessels. The fishing industry bears the brunt of pollution, with pollutants reducing fish populations and disrupting coastal communities’ economies. Additionally, coastal regions experience a decline in quality of life, and human health is jeopardized due to contaminated waters.
With unwavering dedication, AYLUS Oyster Bay volunteers actively took part in the beach cleanup, recognizing the urgent need to address this pressing issue. By removing litter from Centre Island Beach, they played a vital role in preventing further harm to marine life and mitigating the economic and environmental consequences that plague coastal communities.
The collective efforts of AYLUS members served as a powerful reminder of the impact that proactive community action can have. Through their volunteering, they helped raise awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship and the responsibility we all share in safeguarding our oceans.
This beach cleanup not only made a tangible difference in the cleanliness of Centre Island Beach but also acted as a stepping stone toward fostering a more sustainable and responsible approach to waste management in our community.
As AYLUS Oyster Bay continues to advocate for cleaner oceans and healthier marine ecosystems, they leave a lasting impression on future generations, inspiring a spirit of environmental consciousness and a commitment to preserving the natural wonders that enrich our lives.
Gratitude to the following 8 young volunteers, totaling 18.5 volunteer hours collectively.
Christina Mink (3.5hrs), Gavin Lee (3hrs), Johnny Chen (2hrs) , Helen Chen (2hrs), Addie Succs (2hrs) , Zilin Zhang (2hrs) , Zihan Zhang (2hrs), Ariel Liyu Dai (2hrs)
