COA's 2024 Beach Sweeps Report
Waves of thanks to the 6,835 volunteers who helped to collect 276,899 items during just 6 hours of sweeping in 2024. Check out the dirty details and unique and most ridiculous items:
About the Beach Sweeps
Since its launch in 1985, Clean Ocean Action (COA) has led the charge against marine debris with the region’s first Beach Sweeps program—an initiative that has become one of the longest-running coastal cleanups in the world. What began with just 75 volunteers at a single site has grown into a powerful movement: in 40 years, over 176,000 volunteers have contributed more than 1 million hours to remove 8.7 million pieces of debris from New Jersey’s shores.
From the Raritan Bay to the Delaware Bay, and along the Atlantic coastline, volunteers unite to clean beaches, waterways, and even underwater sites. Participants come from all walks of life—schools, businesses, community groups, families, and individuals—sharing a common goal: to protect marine life and preserve the beauty of our coast. Each cleanup also serves a scientific purpose, as volunteers meticulously document the types of debris collected. This data is compiled into annual reports that inform and strengthen litter-reduction policies at the local, state, and federal levels.
Marine litter poses a deadly threat to wildlife. Fish, whales, birds, and other animals often mistake trash for food, leading to entanglement or ingestion of harmful items like plastic bags, fishing line, and cigarette filters. These filters, which resemble small fish, have been found in the stomachs of birds and larger marine species, disrupting digestion and introducing toxic, cancer-causing chemicals into their systems.
Plastic pollution doesn’t just disappear—it can take anywhere from a few years to several centuries to break down. During that time, it continues to endanger wildlife, damage boat motors and propellers, and degrade the coastal experience for visitors. Garbage slicks and debris wash-ups can lead to beach closures, hurting tourism and the local economy.
COA’s Beach Sweeps are more than just cleanups—they’re a call to action. By participating, volunteers not only remove harmful debris but also contribute to a growing body of knowledge that drives change. Together, we can protect marine ecosystems, support coastal communities, and ensure that future generations inherit a cleaner, healthier ocean.
Who should participate in Beach Sweeps?
Volunteers of all ages. Children age 12 and under must be supervised by an adult. Registration is required. Register here!
How to get involved in Beach Sweeps:
- To participate in the Beach Sweeps first review the list of Beach Sweeps sites.
- Once you've selected a site, click here to register to participate! Registration is required.
- The event runs from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm. Please note when registering that certain sites may be a different day and/or time. Event is rain or shine.
- Bring gloves and a trash bucket (this helps to reduce the number of plastic bags used).
- Wear sunscreen and hard-soled shoes.
- Dress for the weather. Stay off dunes and respect wildlife.
- Volunteers can click here to learn more about becoming a Beach Captain.
If you have any questions about the Beach Sweeps please contact:
Clean Ocean Action
732-872-0111
