Introduction
Each year, an estimated 14 billion pounds of trash are dumped into
the world's oceans -- something that's particularly important to residents
of a coastal area like Tampa Bay. Trash is not only an eyesore, it's
dangerous! An estimated 100,000 marine animals and two million sea
birds die each year from eating or becoming entangled in marine debris.
It's also dangerous for beach-goers and boaters. Disposing of all
that trash costs local communities millions of dollars every year.
Up to 80 percent of the debris damaging our global coastal habitats comes
from land-based sources -- from people who litter! Litter on the
shoreline becomes marine debris. Any trash improperly disposed of
can get into the ocean or other waterways, and anyone who improperly disposes
of trash can be a source of marine debris!
Use this site to sign up for coastal cleanups, find lesson plans concerning
coastal environments and keep up with the latest news about Tampa Bay Beach
Buddies. Stop back often, because we are always adding new lessons and
updating our calendar.