Can the Trash! Clean Beach Poster Contest

About the Program

Category: Civic Education and Public Information (Best in Category)

Year: 2020

Can the Trash! is an environmental messaging campaign created to educate youth about the significant problem of runoff pollution and its effect on the health of the County’s beaches and ocean waters. It uses creative content to teach elementary school students how trash and other pollutants improperly disposed of in their neighborhoods end up as a source of coastal pollution. The campaign’s educational materials include a colorfully-illustrated 20-page activity guide and an animated video featuring an original song with a catchy pop tune. Displayed on a campaign website, these educational tools are easily accessible to teachers, parents, and any youth leaders. Using the instructional materials, students in 3rd-5th grade are invited to enter the Clean Beach Poster Contest by drawing a picture with a message about protecting the ocean and beaches. Winning artwork is featured on thousands of trash barrels across County-operated beaches, which serve as a medium for powerful messages boosting environmental awareness in the beach-going public. Visit the campaign website at: beaches.lacounty.gov/postercontest.