Coordinators of the International Coastal Cleanup from the United States and Around the World Respond to the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill Crisis

Media Contact: Kelly Ricaurte

April 30, 2010

Cancun, Mexico— Coordinators of Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup are currently gathered in Cancun Mexico for their annual conference. The global network of organizations and individuals remove trash and debris from the world's beaches and waterways; identify the sources of debris; and advocate for changing policies and behaviors that cause marine debris in the first place. Today they issued the following statement:



"For 25 years we have worked to keep our oceans and waterways clean and safe from trash for current and future generations. Now, we are watching heartbroken as these same coasts are being enveloped in a thick black slick. On behalf of the 500,000 volunteers of the International Coastal Cleanup, we urge that every measure possible be taken by expert responders in the coming days to protect our precious coasts. As coordinators we are dedicated to activating our volunteer networks to assist in this cleanup effort at the appropriate time."



Spencer Ryan, Alabama coordinator with Alabama PALS, said: "As coordinators of the Gulf Coast region's coastal cleanup effort, we have so appreciated the support of cleanup coordinators from around the world as this tragedy has unfolded. The international community shares our concerns, and we have their support at this difficult time."

Annie Griffin, Florida coordinator with the Perdido Key Association, said: "This is the beginning of the turtle nestling season on the Gulf Coast. They are just one part of a pristine ecosystem that we on Perdido Key call home. I fear that our environment, community and economy could be devastated by the fallout of this spill."

John Kieser, South Africa country coordinator, said: "Having seen major oil spills here in South Africa that have devastated our wildlife and coasts, we empathize with the people of the Gulf. The world's coastlines are a precious resource, which the International Coastal Cleanup volunteers work to protect every day. We urge US authorities to do everything they can to protect the Gulf from the worst of this crisis."

Ocean Conservancy is the world's foremost advocate for the oceans. Through science-based advocacy, research, and public education, we inform, inspire and empower people to speak and act for the oceans. Ocean Conservancy is headquartered in Washington, DC, and has offices in Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific, including Alaska, with support from more than half a million members and volunteers.