Turning Small Actions into Big Change
Imagine standing on Fort Lauderdale Beach, the ocean stretching endlessly before you and the reefs calling your name. The waves are gentle, the sun glistens on the water, and families, joggers, and divers share the beach. It’s paradise—but look closer. A plastic straw peeks out from the dunes. A bottle cap lies near the tide line. A cigarette butt hides in the sand. These tiny pieces of trash may seem insignificant, but together, they represent a growing threat to our oceans.
That’s why Out Scuba is launching Take 3 for the Sea, a program that blends marine conservation with community connection. Starting Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, we’ll meet at the NE 17th Street beach access point for our first cleanup. Afterward, we’ll head to a local spot for lunch to celebrate our efforts and strengthen the bonds that make our club special.
What Is Take 3 for the Sea?
The idea is beautifully simple: every time you visit the beach—or any waterway—pick up three pieces of trash. Dispose of them properly, and you’ve just made a difference. This small act helps prevent litter from entering the ocean, where it can harm marine life, damage coral reefs, and contribute to the global pollution crisis.
Why three pieces? Because it’s achievable. It’s a habit anyone can adopt without feeling overwhelmed. And when hundreds of people do it consistently, the impact is enormous.
Why It Matters
Marine debris is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. Plastic pollution alone accounts for 80% of all marine litter worldwide. In South Florida, researchers have found plastic in 30% of sea turtles and 90% of seabirds. These animals mistake floating plastic for food, leading to injury, starvation, and death.
Plastic doesn’t biodegrade—it breaks down into microplastics that persist for centuries. These particles infiltrate the food chain, affecting fish, birds, and even humans. By removing trash before it reaches the water, we’re protecting ecosystems and public health.
Our Beach is Under Pressure
Fort Lauderdale is a jewel of Florida’s coastline, attracting millions of visitors each year. Florida welcomed 143 million tourists in 2024, and Fort Lauderdale’s beaches are among the most popular destinations. With this popularity comes a challenge: litter.
During Broward County’s annual Coastal Cleanup in 2025, 1,800 volunteers collected over 5,200 pounds of trash in just one morning. Common items included plastic bags, Styrofoam containers, cigarette butts, and broken glass. These aren’t just eyesores—they’re hazards for wildlife and swimmers alike.
Our Partnership with the City
We’re proud to align with the City of Fort Lauderdale, which has taken proactive steps to reduce plastic pollution, including banning single-use plastic straws and polystyrene on city property. Our monthly cleanups will complement these efforts and amplify their impact.
Event Details
- When: Second Saturday of every month
- First Cleanup: January 10, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Meeting Point: 17 NE Street beach access point
- RSVP: Sign up on our event calendar
- After Cleanup: Group lunch at a local restaurant
Bring reusable gloves, reef-safe sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. We’ll provide trash bags and guidance on proper disposal. If you have a reacher/grabber we definitely recommend bringing that.
The Social Side
Take 3 for the Sea isn’t just about cleaning up—it’s about connecting. After each cleanup, we’ll gather for lunch at a local spot. These meals are a chance to share stories, celebrate our progress, and strengthen the friendships that make our club thrive.
The Bigger Picture
Globally, beach cleanups are making a difference. In 2024, Surfrider Foundation volunteers collected over 365,000 pounds of trash nationwide, most of it plastic. These efforts influence policy, raise awareness, and inspire change.
Our local initiative is part of this movement. By starting small—three pieces at a time—we can create a ripple effect that leads to cleaner beaches, healthier oceans, and stronger communities.
How You Can Help
- Join Our Monthly Cleanups
RSVP on our event calendar and bring your friends and family. - Make It a Habit
Every time you visit the beach, pick up three pieces of trash. Post a photo with the hashtag #Take3ForTheSeaFTL to inspire others. - Wear your Support
Grab one of our long-sleeve shirts off the store to wear - Spread the Word
Share our mission on social media. Encourage your network of friends to adopt the Take 3 habit. - Reduce Your Own Impact
Use reusable bottles, bags, and straws. Say no to single-use plastics.
Why Three Pieces Can Change the World
It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of global problems. But change starts with small, consistent actions. If 100 people pick up three pieces of trash every week, that’s 15,600 pieces in a year. Multiply that by thousands of beachgoers, and the impact is staggering.
Join Us January 10, 2026
Our first cleanup is more than an event—it’s the beginning of a movement. Together, we can protect the waters we love and ensure they remain vibrant for generations to come. Join us!
Take 3 for the Sea. Take action. Take pride.