Fall 03
Recent attention to the global problem of plastic
pollution in our oceans and waterways has made
many people more aware of their plastic use. In
fact, more than 80 percent of the plastic that enters
the ocean each year (such as plastic bottles, straws and
packaging) comes from a land-based source. This means,
no matter where we are, we can all have an impact in
keeping the marine ecosystems we love healthy.
In 2018, the Clearwater city council approved
a resolution supporting ocean-friendly lifestyles
and business practices. Being ocean-friendly
means trying your best to avoid single-use
plastics. Many items we use for only a few
minutes are made from plastic that
will take hundreds of years
to break down, even
then only breaking
down into smaller
plastic pieces.
These pieces
can negatively
affect our
health and
ecosystems.
Thankfully,
there are
many reusable
or compostable
alternatives
available. These
choices (such as reusable
bags, metal or silicone
My Clearwater
Ocean-Friendly Choices
straws and paper-based take-out containers) are not only
better for the planet and human health, but they can also be
more cost-effective choices for businesses.
In support of the city’s
resolution, a local nonprofit
called Ocean
Allies formed to
help businesses
switch to oceanfriendly
practices
and to guide
consumers to the
businesses that
align with their
concerns. Since
September 2018,
17 Clearwater
businesses have become
Ocean Allies-certified oceanfriendly
businesses. With the help
of Ocean Allies, the Clearwater Beach
Chamber of Commerce also successfully
made Taste Fest 2019 the first-ever
ocean-friendly and zero-waste event in
the city. This is great progress.
Residents and businesses alike are
encouraged to join the city’s goal of
keeping Clearwater bright, beautiful and
free of plastic debris. Visit oceanallies.org to
learn more or get involved.
/oceanallies.org