The Survey
To learn more about what motivates people to participate in beach cleanups, I conducted a survey on the SurveyMonkey platform. The survey link was shared on social media pages related to tourism on Vancouver Island and within local communities. The survey was active from July 2022 to November 2022, during which a total of 47 participants took part. Among the participants, 68% were locals, and 32% were tourists. You can find the survey link here: https://www.surveymonkey.ca/r/JSR6SR3.
The survey revealed that 38% of respondents had previously participated in beach cleanups, while the majority (62%) were new to this activity.
Many participants prefer dedicating 1-2 hours to the cleanup because it strikes the perfect balance. This timeframe is often used in community cleanups, as it allows ample time for providing tool tutorials, giving guidance on the types of trash to collect, and offering an insightful overview of the location's significance. This timeframe accommodates an "after-party" where participants can enjoy refreshments and solidify the bonds formed during the cleanup.
Katerina Moiseeva | Volunteering event on Vancouver Island
Participants were asked to rank the motivation reasons. The results were as follows:
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Learning about marine life.
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Learning about the location where the cleanup takes place.
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Meet new people.
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Get an incentive after the cleanup.
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Go to a place you couldn't otherwise access.
Here are more reasons why people would participate in beach cleanups
What motivates
LOCALS
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Take care of their own backyard.
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Giving back to the community.
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Community connection.
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Protecting wildlife and guarding nature.
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Educational opportunity.
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Natural workout.
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Feel-good factor.
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Setting an example.
TOURISTS
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Eco-tourism thrills.
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Unforgettable experiences.
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Newfound knowledge rather than from the guidebook.
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Cultural immersion.
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Feel-good factor.
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Social connection.
Here are more reasons why people would participate in beach cleanups.
Locals participate in beach cleanups because it's a blend of environmental stewardship, social connection, and personal fulfillment. Any volunteering event gives a profound sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. It's a way to celebrate and protect the places they call home. Moreover, for families, beach cleanups serve as a powerful teaching moment. Parents can impart essential lessons about environmental responsibility to their children, being role models for responsible beach behavior. They set the standard for visitors, hoping to inspire others to care for these coastal treasures.
Tourists participate in beach cleanups to transform their vacations into impactful, memorable, and deeply fulfilling experiences that transcend the ordinary. Many are passionate about the recent eco-tourism trend, eagerly contributing to the preservation of the beautiful places they visit. They appreciate the opportunity to engage with local communities, forging connections they wouldn't typically encounter. Beach cleanups offer an educational component that immerses tourists in the local culture. It's a chance to interact with locals, understand their values, and share stories and experiences, enriching their trip. The sense of fulfillment that comes from actively contributing to the wellbeing of beloved destinations also drives their participation, along with the desire to connect with like-minded travelers.
Beach cleanup enthusiasts
The survey indicated the following types of beach cleanup enthusiasts:
Eco-Enthusiasts: These nature lovers have a heart as deep as the ocean. They can't resist the chance to save their beloved beaches.
Community Champions: Superheroes in their local communities, they wield trash bags as their mighty weapons, cleansing their shores while they’re walking with the dog, or on their days off.
Discovery Daredevils: Adventurers at heart, they're always up for exploring the mysteries of marine life and the hidden stories buried in the sands.
Nature Ninjas: These active souls view a beach cleanup as a chance to combine physical fitness with eco-fighting skills.
Social Butterflies: The cleanup isn't just about tidying up; it's an opportunity to meet fellow beach-loving souls and add new chapters to their social storybook.
Planet Protectors: With a superhero cape of responsibility, they swoop in to save the day, driven by their mission to safeguard our precious planet.
Reward Seekers: These are just enticed by incentives! A little recognition, some tasty treats, or a sense of accomplishment – they thrive on these feel-good rewards.
Adventure Addicts: For these thrill-seekers, it's all about the excitement of exploring less-trodden, exotic beach locations.
Beach cleanup motivations are as diverse as the seashells on the shore. Eco-enthusiasts, community champions, and discovery daredevils are among those who find joy in preserving beaches. Nature ninjas, social butterflies, and planet protectors do it for the sense of duty and connection. Meanwhile, reward seekers and adventure addicts seek tangible or experiential incentives. Harnessing these motivations makes beach cleanups more fun and engaging for everyone involved.
Katerina Moiseeva | Volunteering event on Vancouver Island
Analysis
People perceive beach cleanups as an opportunity to dive into the world of marine life while gaining insights into the environment. But it doesn't stop there; the idea of discovering the hidden tales and historical events that have molded a beach's identity (or, for example, the hotel or tourism business that organizes the event) is a compelling draw. It taps into our inherent curiosity, since we love hearing stories, we love mystery and are seeking a more immersive experience.
The social side of these events is also significant. Volunteering is a gateway to connecting with kindred spirits, especially those who share a passion for environmental preservation. It's a way of forging new bonds and expanding one's social horizons. That's why it's a great idea to cement these newfound friendships with a post-cleanup "after-party," where participants can extend their time together and deepen their connections.
Incentives also pique people's interest. While traditional swag might create unwanted waste, there are alternative methods, like symbolic recognition. For instance, the more cleanup events you join, the higher your rank and recognition. Additional incentives could include snacks and drinks, fostering a relaxed atmosphere for participants to share their closing thoughts.
Interestingly, the notion of heading to a remote or restricted beach ranked lower in preferences. It can sound challenging, yet it sparks intrigue for the adventurous few. It's an option that offers a fresh, exclusive experience - something out of the ordinary.
These insights serve as a compass for organizers, helping them craft beach cleanup events that resonate with participants' motivations and preferences, ensuring an engaging and meaningful experience for all involved