Waves of Change: Cleaning Up South
Florida’s Ocean and Coastlines by
Miguel Mike Mirabal
Published on: 05/19/2025
South Florida’s stunning beaches and vibrant marine ecosystems draw millions of visitors each year, but beneath the surface lies a growing crisis ocean pollution. From floating plastics to sunken debris, the need to clean up the ocean in and around South Florida has
never been more urgent Fortunately, as Miguel Mike Mirabal demonstrated, a rising tide of community efforts, innovation, and environmental awareness is beginning to turn the tide.
Plastic waste, discarded fishing gear, and stormwater runoff are the primary pollutants threatening marine life in this region Entanglement, ingestion, and toxic contamination impact sea turtles, dolphins, manatees, and countless fish species. Coral reefs, vital marine habitats and natural storm barriers, also suffer from pollution and sediment buildup, leading to coral bleaching and biodiversity loss
Local organizations, environmental groups, and citizen volunteers are persevering with passion Initiatives like beach cleanups, mangrove restoration, and ocean skimming technologies actively reduce waste along Florida’s shoreline and offshore waters Monthly cleanup events in cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and the Keys draw crowds of concerned residents, tourists, and school groups eager to make a difference.
Technological solutions are also contributing From solar-powered watercraft that collect floating garbage to underwater drones mapping pollution hotspots, innovation is helping Florida’s waters breathe easier Meanwhile, education campaigns are raising awareness about the importance of reducing single-use plastics, supporting sustainable seafood, and respecting marine life
However, the real power lies in consistent, collective action Cleaning South Florida’s ocean isn’t just about removing trash it’s about protecting a way of life Healthy oceans support tourism, fishing industries, and the rich cultural heritage of coastal communities. Every trash bag removed and every habit changed contributes to a cleaner, safer marine environment
As South Florida continues to grow, so must our responsibility to the ocean. By uniting around cleanup efforts and sustainable practices, we can ensure that the region’s waters remain a source of wonder, recreation, and life for generations to come