- Be aware of storm drains. The trash and toxins that are dumped on the street go directly to the ocean: litter, used oil, antifreeze, sewage, toxic chemicals, etc.
- When you sweep your driveways and sidewalks, put debris in the trashcan instead of the gutter.
- Don’t water your driveway. It won’t grow, and all of that water washes to the beach.
- Plant – don’t pave. Let the water runoff soak into the ground. Landscaping looks better and creates oxygen.
- Pull weeds; the less herbicide and pesticide you use, the less you will swim in on the weekend. Use lawn clippings to fertilize your lawn.
- Unless you like to swim in animal poop, make sure that you and your neighbors pick up droppings.
- Report full catch basins; The Department of Public Works should clean a full storm sewer.
- Fix your car leaks. More oil enters the beach from urban run-off than from tanker spills. If your car drips, the oil will find its way to the ocean. Note:
Dumping one quart of oil down a storm drain contaminates 250,000 gallons of water.
- Use non-toxic products. Vinegar or baking soda clean very well. There are many eco-sensitive products on the market for a variety of uses; the more people use them, the more will become available.
- Talk around town. Because most people don’t realize they are contributing to non-point source pollution, spread the word and get your neighbors and co-workers involved.
Surfrider Foundation Mission Statement
The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches, for all people, through conservation, activism, research, and education.
National website: www.Surfrider.org.
Local Malibu Chapter: (310) 451-1010
www.surfrider.org/malibu