Cleaning the Beaches of the French Riviera: Citizen Mobilization for a Cleaner Coastline

On June 1, 2024, Eco Imagination organized a large cleanup operation on Plage de l’Opéra, an iconic beach on the French Riviera. In partnership with local associations, schools, and committed volunteers, this initiative aimed to raise awareness of marine litter and protect coastal biodiversity.

In total, more than 30 volunteers participated in collecting and sorting waste accumulated along the shoreline, demonstrating that every action counts in preserving our environment.

The beaches of the Riviera are among the most beautiful in Europe, but they are not spared from pollution. Every year, tons of plastic waste, cigarette butts, and other debris are washed up on the shore, endangering marine life and water quality.

Plastic accounts for 80% of marine litter, and its fragments, called microplastics, are ingested by fish and birds, contaminating the entire food chain. Faced with this alarming reality, Eco Imagination decided to act by directly involving citizens and younger generations.

From the morning, equipped with gloves and biodegradable bags, participants combed the beach and coastal areas to collect debris. In just a few hours, more than 100 kg of waste was collected, including a majority of plastics, abandoned fishing nets, and cigarette butts.

Thanks to this action, many residents and tourists became aware of the urgent need to protect our beaches and expressed their willingness to become more involved in local initiatives to preserve the environment.