ASEZ volunteers came together at Downing Park for a community cleanup as part of the ASEZ Global Blue Carbon Ecosystem Protection Initiative. The event focused on removing plastic and litter from the park and surrounding areas to help prevent waste from reaching local waterways and, eventually, the ocean.
The cleanup served not only to protect and clean the environment, community outreach and awareness raising, and strengthening governmental relationships. Volunteers worked together to collect litter, improve the appearance of the park, and educate community members about the importance of protecting water ecosystems from pollution.
ASEZ Blue Carbon Initiative to Protect Our Oceans
Plastic pollution remains one of the greatest threats to oceans, rivers and other bodies of water. Much of the litter found in parks, streets and public spaces can be carried by rainwater into storm drains and waterways. By removing waste before it enters these systems, volunteers help protect aquatic habitats and support the preservation of blue carbon ecosystems, which include coastal and marine environments that naturally store carbon and help regulate the climate.
In addition to the cleanup effort, the event created an opportunity to engage with local residents and share information about environmental stewardship. Volunteers encouraged community members to take an active role in keeping public spaces clean and understanding how individual actions can make a positive difference.
“As a university student, joining this Blue Carbon Campaign allowed me to see firsthand how important it is to gain knowledge that inspires action on our campuses and in our communities,” shared Lexi Burnham, an ASEZ volunteer. “Learning about the challenges facing our oceans and coastal ecosystems motivated me to become more involved in creating positive change. By sharing information and raising awareness, we can help others understand the problem and become part of the solution.”
Local Leaders Support ASEZ Volunteers for Their Efforts Towards the Blue Carbon Initiative
The event also received support from New York State Senator Rob Rolison, who attended and encouraged volunteers in their efforts. Senator Rob Rolison expressed his appreciation for the project, saying: “When things are cleaner, they are safer, and more people will come to this park. This is a historic park and a beautiful park. Most communities don’t have parks like this, and when you show it some love, which you are doing, it gives that love right back. I learned today about blue carbon and what that means, and I am proudly wearing the official blue vest [of ASEZ] to show that I care, just like all of you. Thank you so very much to each and every one of you.”
Through cleanup activities like this one, ASEZ continues to promote environmental responsibility while building partnerships with local communities and government leaders. By removing plastic and waste from Downing Park, volunteers helped create a cleaner, safer environment for residents today while contributing to the long-term protection of our waterways and blue carbon ecosystems for future generations.
Visit our Activities page to see more volunteer events from ASEZ!
