Around 300 volunteers took part in a beach clean-up in Mamaia. The event was organized in observation of the International Coastal Cleanup Day by the U.S. Embassy in Bucharest in partnership with the Navy League of the United States – Romania Council.
International Coastal Cleanup Day, held annually on 19 September, raises awareness of the dangers marine debris poses to the health of humans, wildlife, and the livelihoods that depend on a healthy ocean. This year marks the thirtieth anniversary of the annual International Coastal Cleanup, which is led by the Ocean Conservancy.
In the lead-up to the Our Ocean conference that will take place October 5 and 6 in Santiago, Chile, the U.S. Department of State and U.S. embassies worldwide are supporting international coastal cleanups. One of the primary goals from the Our Ocean Action Plan is to reduce the input of debris significantly, especially plastics, into the marine environment in order to achieve measurable reductions by 2025. Other goals include reducing ocean acidification, and promoting sustainable fishing.
The Deputy Chief of Mission, Dean Thompson, participated in the event alongside citizens and representatives of the local authorities in Constanta, renowned athletes, students from “Mircea cel Bătrân” National College and the Sports Club “Farul” Constanța, representatives of the U.S. and Romanian military, and U.S. Embassy in Bucharest staff.