September 25 2024 at 10:00AM
Event Recap | 40 Years of Coastal Care: A Personal and Professional Reflection
The crisp morning air carried the scent of saltwater as my wife, Karen, and I joined a dedicated group of volunteers at Thomas Crown State Beach in Alameda, California. We were there to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the California Coastal Cleanup, a PMI-SFBAC Sustainability event that resonated deeply with both my personal and professional life.
As a member of the Project Management Institute's San Francisco Bay Area Chapter (PMI-SFBAC), I was proud to be part of this initiative, alongside countless other organizations and individuals committed to preserving our precious coastline. But this wasn't just another volunteer event for me; it was a chance to connect with my lifelong passion for environmental protection.
My career in the Coast Guard exposed me to the devastating consequences of pollution. I vividly recall the harrowing experience of cleaning up catastrophic oil spills in the Houston Ship Channel and the Gulf of Mexico. Witnessing the toll these disasters took on marine life and ecosystems fueled my determination to prevent such tragedies.
As an avid scuba diver, I've been privileged to explore some of the world's most breathtaking coral reefs. Swimming alongside majestic whale sharks, graceful manta rays, and playful sea turtles has filled me with awe and wonder. But the sight of trash marring these underwater paradises or the scars left by careless boat anchors is a stark reminder of the human impact on our oceans.
These experiences have shaped my commitment to environmental stewardship, both in my personal life and in my current role at PG&E. I'm proud to work for a company that places a high value on sustainability. PG&E is actively investing in renewable energy sources, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting energy efficiency. Witnessing their dedication reinforces my belief that we can make a positive impact on our planet.
The California Coastal Cleanup provided a unique opportunity to combine my personal and professional passions. As we combed the beach, picking up discarded plastic bottles, cigarette butts, and other debris, I couldn't help but reflect on the impact of our collective efforts. Since its inception in 1984, the California Coastal Cleanup has removed over 25 million pounds of trash from our beaches and waterways. These staggering numbers highlight the magnitude of the problem but also the power of individuals working together to make a difference.
Throughout the day, we interacted with curious onlookers who inquired about our efforts. Engaging with them and explaining the importance of coastal cleanup was both rewarding and enlightening. It reminded me that education and awareness are crucial components of environmental protection. By sharing our knowledge and passion, we can inspire others to take action and become stewards of our planet.
As the day drew to a close, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for my fellow PMI SFBAC volunteers, the countless other organizations involved, and the thousands of individuals who dedicated their time to this cause. Together, we made a tangible difference in the health of our coastline.
On a personal level, the cleanup reinforced my commitment to sustainable living and environmental advocacy. Professionally, it reminded me of the importance of collaboration and the power of collective action. I returned home with renewed energy, eager to apply these lessons in my community and to my role at PG&E.
The 40th anniversary of the California Coastal Cleanup was a powerful reminder that even small actions can have a significant impact. By working together, we can protect our oceans, preserve our natural resources, and create a sustainable future for generations to come.
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Note from PMI-SFBAC Sustainability Team: THANK YOU to our greater Green Team for participating in our initiatives this year! We have one last in-person event coming up November 17th and we’re planning 2025 events. Join us!
