Every 3rd Saturday in September, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., thousands of South Carolinians clear beaches, rivers, lakes, marshes, and swamps of aquatic debris. Once the Sweep is over, The Ocean Conservancy tallies all of the debris data. This data helps us learn the sources of litter so we can stop pollution before it starts. Aquatic debris is dangerous. Seeing the effects of it first-hand, by participating in the cleanup, can demonstrate that.
Litter is a danger to our wildlife, our safety, and our economy.
South Carolina is lucky to have such a vast amount of wonderful aquatic resources. We are home to a diverse wildlife population. Our state's economy thrives on the tourism industry. However, if we don't care for our natural resources, they simply won't be there. If we don't address the consequences of our throwaway, disposable lifestyle now, these grim possibilities could become our reality, experts tell us.