Celebrate the Ocean Friendly Way, Miami Beach

Surfrider's Miami Chapter is happy to report that the City of Miami Beach has adopted a new ordinance to prevent the use of plastic and metallized decor at beaches, parks, and marinas. 

Plastic confetti, glitter, streamers, tinsel, artificial petals, and other decor may seem small, but they have a big impact. These decorations often end up in storm drains and waterways, ultimately ending up on our beaches and in the ocean. Once there, they harm wildlife like sea turtles, birds, and fish and damage marine habitats. Further, they persist for thousands of years, breaking down into microplastics that threaten public health and marine ecosystems.

Surfrider Miami hosts regular coastal cleanups and consistently finds these decor items in the hundreds of pounds of trash collected. Plastic fragments are among the most common items we collect, and each cleanup is a stark reminder of how much work we have to do to keep our beaches clean.

Miami Beach is known worldwide for its beautiful coastline and vibrant tourism economy. By passing this ordinance, the City will help preserve its reputation as a clean and healthy destination while safeguarding the natural resources that make it so special.

Surfrider Miami supported the ordinance in engagement with the City of Miami Beach Mayor Meiner and the City of Miami Beach Commission as well as providing public comment in support of the ordinance's passage. We thank Commissioners Fernandez, Suarez, and Rosen-Gonzalez for bringing this important measure forward. We applaud the City of Miami Beach Commission for taking this practical step to protect the waters and beaches we love -- and ensure they remain healthy and thriving for future celebrations!