With rising temperatures and thousands of holidaymakers heading to the beaches, the risks of marine and coastal pollution are also increasing. According to the 2023 Beach Litter Initiative launched by the Legambiente organization, more than 37,000 pieces of litter were recorded on 38 Italian beaches in the month of May alone, most of which were made of plastic and synthetic polymers that may take hundreds of years to decompose.
Data from the initiative shows that plastic fragments rank first among the waste items (10% of the total), followed by bottle caps (8%), cigarette butts (6%), and plastic cotton swabs (4%). This waste not only spoils the aesthetic appeal of the beach but also poses a direct threat to marine life.
To address this phenomenon, the initiative launched awareness activities to inform beachgoers about the importance of preserving beaches and to encourage them to adopt simple daily practices that can make a real difference.
Golden Tips for an Eco-Friendly Vacation
1- Recycling
Environmental awareness does not take a holiday. If you are committed to recycling at home, why stop at the beach? Therefore, you should bring designated bags for collecting and separating waste, and make sure to carry them with you if there are no dedicated bins on the beach. You can even turn this into a fun group activity by organizing “clean-up walks” with family and friends, equipped with tongs, biodegradable bags, and gloves to protect your hands, making your outing an opportunity to serve the environment.
2- Eco-Friendly Beach Towels
Your choice of towels can also have an environmental impact. Towels made of cotton or natural bamboo fibers are an ideal option compared to plastic mats or synthetic materials that harm the environment. Today, many brands offer special product lines designed to be nature-friendly, giving you comfort on the beach without leaving a harmful trace on the planet.
3- Sustainable Swimwear
Your outfits can be eco-friendly too. Choose swimwear made from recycled materials or handcrafted from natural fabrics. When washing them, it is preferable to do so by hand using gentle, nature-friendly detergents to reduce the release of microplastic fibers into the water.
4- Sunscreen That Protects You and the Sea
Choosing sunscreen is not only about protecting your skin, but it can also help protect marine life. Therefore, make sure to choose sunscreens free from oxybenzone and equipped with natural mineral filters.
5- Biodegradable Cleaning Products
Biodegradable soap, shampoo, and shower gel are not just a luxury, but a necessity for protecting the marine environment. Use these products not only at the beach but also as part of your daily routine to reduce chemical pollution that threatens oceans and seas.
6- Nature-Friendly Beach Bags
Don’t let your bags burden the environment. Opt for beach bags made of mesh cotton or reusable fabric, and ensure you check their durability before traveling—especially if you tend to carry a lot of essentials. These choices are not only practical but also kind to the planet.
