On June 14, ASEZ members gathered at Downing Park in New York State to collect discarded plastic and other waste throughout the park and help improve the local environment. Held as part of the ASEZ Global Blue Carbon Ecosystem Protection Initiative, the activity aimed not only to create a cleaner park but also to reduce the amount of waste from everyday environments that can make its way into waterways and eventually the ocean.
Members collected litter throughout the park and surrounding areas while introducing local residents to the purpose of the campaign. They shared that protecting the ocean does not begin at the coast alone, as litter discarded on streets and in parks can be carried by rain through storm drains and waterways. Even small actions to keep nearby living spaces clean can help protect local waterways.
As the cleanup continued, the park gradually became cleaner. Members divided into groups to collect waste and create a more pleasant environment. They also spoke with residents they met at the site about environmental protection, building greater awareness and understanding. The activity provided a natural opportunity for university students to engage with local residents while identifying environmental issues in their community and taking action to address them.
ASEZ member Lexi Burnham, who participated in the activity, said, “As a university student, taking part in this blue carbon campaign made me realize firsthand how important it is to put what we learn into action on campus and in our communities. Learning about the challenges facing the marine and coastal ecosystems has made me want to become more actively involved in creating positive change. By sharing information and raising awareness, we can help more people understand these issues and take part in addressing them.”
New York State Senator Rob Rolison also joined the event and encouraged the members in their efforts. He said that a clean environment helps make parks safer and encourages more people to visit, and expressed his appreciation to the university students working to care for the historic and beautiful Downing Park. He also said that he learned about the meaning of blue carbon at the event and showed his support for ASEZ members by putting on an ASEZ vest himself.
The activity also brought the university students’ environmental efforts into direct contact with the local community. Members raised awareness among residents about the importance of environmental protection and shared the significance of the campaign with local government officials, expanding opportunities for cooperation. What began as a small effort by university students at Downing Park went beyond simply cleaning the park, growing into an effort to protect local waterways and encourage greater public participation in environmental action.
