Meet the site coordinators of the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup: Sue Sandar

WWF

Sue Sandar has lived in the Fraser Valley of British Columbia for the last 11 years, and is an experienced site coordinator on a mission to clean her shorelines. The event that takes place every year in an effort to cleanup litter from our shorelines is a huge feat.  It wouldn’t be possible without wonderful citizens who participate, and motivated individuals like Sue who volunteer their time and energy to make it all happen.

Read on for some stories and insight from her:
Q: When and how did you first get involved in the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup?
A: My family and I are always out 4x4ing and are amazed at all the garbage that we see along the waters edge, whether it is a small babbling brook high in the mountains or the shores of a lake, there is so much garbage. We started picking it up and bringing it home with us and then we realized that this was a bigger job than just our family could handle. I searched online and found the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup was doing the same thing, so I joined and organized my own cleanup. That was nearly 5 years ago now and I am still involved with the Cleanup!
Q: What is your favorite thing about this initiative?
A: My favorite thing about the cleanup is it brings people together for one cause: the environment.  It is so rewarding to see the area before you clean it up and then after you have cleaned it. I think the best thing to date is when a seal came up close and watched us clean up the beach and then hung around and was playful for the small kids that were there.
Q: How do you encourage people in your community to get involved in cleanups?
A: I do not really have to do too much work to encourage people because most people are like me and do not want to harm the environment for the next generation. Instead of sitting back and waiting for someone else to deal with the problem, we try to tackle it head on and have a family day of picking up garbage in an area and then after, we try to put on a BBQ for all that came out to help! We tell people it doesn’t matter if you come out for thirty minutes or three hours, it all helps.

Q: Do you have any tips for new site coordinators?
A:

  • Do not be overwhelmed by the cleanup. Sure it looks like a lot of work but really it isn’t and you can always ask for help if you need it.
  • Scout out your area before the event to find meeting areas, unsafe areas and areas that are kid friendly.
  • Always find out the “who, what, when and where” of disposing your garbage well in advance. Also, find out when your local dump closes. I have had several close calls with that the first couple of clean up events I had.
  • Make a list of everything you need for the event, and I mean everything: from gloves to garbage bags to drinks etc. Local businesses are often willing to donate something to your event.  E.g.: grocery stores might donate a flat of water or pop or some garbage bags. Your local recycling center will likely donate clean pop can/ bottle bags for the recyclables that you will find. Never be afraid to ask a business for something… all they can do is say ‘No!’
  • If you are having door prizes, get them organized as soon as possible so that you are not running around the week before your event.
  • Contact the Mayor of the area that you are holding your cleanup in. It is always nice to let them know your intentions, and they will know who you should contact about the garbage, parking, etc.

 
That is some very helpful advice and an inspiring story.  Finally, some parting words from Sue: “Relax and have fun! If you advertise it they will show up!”