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PA CleanWays Coordinates 17 Cleanup Events In Delaware Estuary
PA CleanWays has announced a total of 21.57 tons of illegally dumped items, appliances, trash, and litter was removed from local waterways and the Delaware Estuary as part of the 24th International Coastal Cleanup event.

The cleanups were held in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties, from September 1 through October 31, with a focus date of September 19.

The International Coastal Cleanup, sponsored by the Ocean Conservancy, is the world’s largest single-day volunteer effort to improve the health of the world’s lakes, streams, rivers, and coastal and marine environments for both humans and wildlife. PA CleanWays coordinated 17 cleanups during this event.

The volunteers worked at various cleanup sites throughout the southeast region of the state to remove the illegally dumped items and trash.

The southeast region of Pennsylvania makes up the Delaware Estuary. PA CleanWays is working with Verizon Telecom Pioneer, the statewide coordinator of the event and local groups to promote the worldwide clean up event in that area.

Debris and litter are more than an eyesore as these items are dangerous to humans and wildlife. Plastics, plastic strapping, and six-pack holders can strangle and endanger wildlife or can be ingested and cause damage to internal organs and intestinal blockage which can be fatal.

Scientists estimate that more than one million birds and 100,000 marine mammals and sea turtles die each year as a result of entanglement or ingestion of litter and debris.

The Environmental Fund of Pennsylvania mini-grant program funded the coordination of these events.

12/7/2009

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