BLIA LA Members Rejuvenate Their Spirits by Cleaning the Beach for International Coastal Cleanup Day

Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple
October 9, 2024

In celebration of the 2024 International Coastal Cleanup Day, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Los Angeles Chapter hosted a beach cleanup event on September 21, 2024, organized by the Long Beach Subchapter. Nearly 200 BLIA members, along with Hsi Lai Scouts and their families, gathered at Junipero Beach in Long Beach to contribute to ocean conservation and fight climate change, collecting over 100 pounds of trash.

Before heading out, Venerable Hui Dong, the Abbot of Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Hsi Lai Temple, explained that the main goal of the cleanup is to remove plastic waste from the beach to protect birds and fish from harmful materials. He emphasized that through this action, participants can cultivate compassion in their hearts.

Venerable Yi Shan, the Superintendent of Hsi Lai Temple, reminded everyone not to focus solely on their immediate area while picking up trash. He encouraged participants to use this opportunity to clear their minds, suggesting that as they cleaned up the beach, they could also work through their inner troubles. He praised the collective effort of BLIA members in protecting the coastal environment and restoring the beach’s natural beauty through their mindful actions.

After Venerable Hui Ze, the Guiding Venerable of the Long Beach Subchapter, shared safety tips for the cleanup, participants lined up to grab their cleaning tools, including grabbers, gloves, and trash bags.

BLIA members split into groups to thoroughly search every corner of the beach. When they spotted small pieces of plastic and Styrofoam, they took the time to sit down and pick them up. Observant scouts diligently collected small items like bottle caps, cigarette butts, plastic food containers, peanut shells, and bits of cardboard.

Kyle Lin, father of scout Adrian Lin, expressed his desire to teach his children about environmental protection through action rather than just words, hoping they will grow into passionate advocates for the Earth.

Marvin Yang’s mother, Jian Wu, shared that both children and adults felt like they were on a "treasure hunt," searching for the "treasure" of environmental protection this meaningful activity represents. She highlighted the importance of proper trash disposal, noting that even small actions, like throwing garbage in the trash can, can significantly impact the environment.

The U.S. Ocean Conservation Association (TOC) established the third Saturday in September as International Coastal Cleanup Day, urging countries worldwide to participate in cleanup efforts. Activities Director General Gena Ooi noted that beach cleanups represent a cycle of love and kindness, where even small contributions help create a cleaner, more comfortable environment for our blue skies and oceans. BLIA members have actively participated in these community cleanups for 12 years, aiming to raise awareness about environmental protection and inspire more people to join the movement to care for our planet.