Our Blog
All things Siesta Key. Stories, news, and event information about Sarasota, Florida's beautiful beach.
How and Why to Keep Siesta Key Beaches Clean
Siesta Key is a beautiful and world-famous locale known for its turquoise and azure waters, as well as its soft and pristine white sand. That’s why it’s often ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. However, like many beaches around the world, it is susceptible to pollution and litter, thanks to its immense popularity. To that end, it is important to keep Siesta Key clean, not only for the sake of the environment but also for the safety and enjoyment of everyone. We here at Best Western Siesta Key are here to tell you all about it.
Why Keep Beaches Clean?
The importance of keeping beaches clean cannot be overstated. For one, litter is a significant problem that poses a threat to marine life and the ecosystem. Trash can end up in the ocean, harming wildlife that mistake it for food or becoming entangled in it. Plastic is a particularly dangerous form of litter, as it can take hundreds of years to decompose and release harmful chemicals into the water. Furthermore, garbage on the beach can discourage tourists from visiting, which can have a significant economic impact on the surrounding area.
What You Can Do
So, what can we do to keep Siesta Key beaches clean and prevent pollution? Here are some tips:
Bring a trash bag with you
When visiting Siesta Key beaches, bring a small trash bag with you to collect any litter you may find. This way, you can ensure that any litter you produce is disposed of properly — and that the sand stays clean.
Use designated trash cans
Siesta Key beaches have numerous trash cans located throughout their facilities, so use them instead of leaving litter on the beach. Or even better, take your trash home with you and dispose of it there. And of course, recycle whenever possible.
Avoid single-use plastics
Single-use plastics, such as plastic water bottles and straws, are a significant source of beach litter. Instead of using these items, bring reusable containers and utensils with you. Some Siesta Key beaches also have refillable water stations available to visitors.
Participate in beach cleanups
Many organizations host beach cleanups throughout the year, including on Siesta Key beaches. Participating in these events is a great way to make a difference and meet like-minded individuals. You can check with local environmental groups or visit the Sarasota County website for upcoming beach cleanup events.
Spread the word
Lastly, spread the word about the importance of keeping beaches clean. For one, you can educate friends and family about the impacts of beach litter and encourage them to take action. You can also share information about beach cleanup events and other initiatives aimed at reducing pollution on social media or through word of mouth.
By taking simple steps to reduce litter and pollution, we can all make a difference and help keep our beaches beautiful for generations to come. That will ensure that our guests here at Best Western Siesta Key and beyond can enjoy this jewel of the Gulf Coast.