Actually, Sustainability IS for Everyone Issue 28: KnowBe4 Takes Part in Big Cleanup Clearwater

Recently, KnowBe4 participated in a citywide cleanup called Big Cleanup Clearwater, in partnership with the City of Clearwater , Keep Pinellas Beautiful , Ocean Allies , Visit St. Pete Clearwater , and AMPLIFY Clearwater . Let’s dive into all the compelling reasons why cleanup efforts are crucial for the environment, our health, and the future of our planet.

Picture this: a group of passionate individuals armed with trash bags, gloves, and determination, gathering along the picturesque shores and throughout the City of Clearwater, Florida. The mission was clear – to make a tangible difference in our local environment and promote a sustainable future.

Here is why initiatives like this matter more than ever:

Protecting Wildlife

Our coastal areas are teeming with diverse marine life, from dolphins to sea turtles and countless species of fish. Unfortunately, plastic waste and debris pose a significant threat to these creatures. By cleaning up our local areas, we prevent marine animals from ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic, which can be fatal. Even trash downtown can be a threat to our oceans, through stormwater drains, strong winds, etc.

Preserving Ecosystems

Ecosystems are delicate balances of nature, where each species plays a vital role. Trash and pollution disrupt these balances, affecting not only the inhabitants but also the overall health of the environment. Our cleanup efforts help restore and maintain the integrity of these ecosystems.

Carbon Footprint Reduction

Did you know that plastics in the ocean break down into microplastics that release greenhouse gasses? By cleaning up plastics and other waste, we indirectly contribute to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.

Reducing Health Risks

A clean environment is directly linked to human health. Littered areas can become breeding grounds for pests and diseases. Moreover, polluted bodies of water can contaminate our drinking water sources. And microplastics in oceans can pollute our sea life. If you eat seafood, and that seafood has ingested microplastics, then guess what? You are eating microplastics as well. By keeping our surroundings clean, we protect ourselves and our communities.

Aesthetics and Tourism

Clearwater's stunning beaches are a tourist magnet. A litter free coastline not only enhances the natural beauty but also boosts tourism, a crucial economic driver for our community. More tourists means more support for local businesses and jobs.

Raising Awareness

Our cleanup events serve as a beacon of hope and awareness. They inspire others to take action, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility for our planet's wellbeing.

So how did we do? All said and done, 22 KnowBe4 employees came out and cleaned up 70 pounds of garbage from the area. That’s 70 pounds of plastic bottles, cans, rusty chains, food containers, broken toys, cigarette butts (and did I mention plastic bottles and cans?), etc., that will not pollute our local waterways, streets, and ultimately our soil and air. Not bad for one hour’s work!?

How can you get involved and make a difference in your own community? Here are a few tips:

• Participate: Join local cleanup events or organize one yourself. It is a fantastic way to connect with like-minded individuals and make a real impact.
• Reduce, Refuse, Reuse, Redesign, Repurpose, Re-earth (compost), and Recycle: Practice the seven Rs in your daily life.?
• Educate: Share your knowledge about the importance of cleanups and sustainability with friends, family, and colleagues. Education is a powerful tool for change.
• Advocate: Support policies and initiatives that promote environmental conservation and responsible waste management. Your voice can make a significant difference on a broader scale.

Remember, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is a way of life that benefits us, our communities, and the planet we call home. The Big Cleanup Clearwater was a fantastic reminder of our collective power to create positive change.

So, let's roll up our sleeves, grab our reusable water bottles and bags, and continue working towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future – one cleanup at a time. Together, we can make waves of change and protect the natural world we all cherish.