Celebrating National Beach Day: Sun, Sand and Sustainability

The 30th of August every year marks National Beach Day, a perfect opportunity to celebrate the beauty and serenity of our coastlines. Whether you’re a fan of soaking up the sun, sandcastles, or surfing, National Beach Day is the ideal time to appreciate the joys of this wonderful environment. However, this day also serves as an important reminder of our responsibility to protect these natural habitats for future generations.

Its origins

National Beach Day was founded 10 years ago by Colleen Paige, a pet and family lifestyle expert, with the goal of raising awareness about the beauty of our beaches and the importance of keeping them clean. While beaches have long been cherished as places of recreation and relaxation, they also play a crucial role in our ecosystem, providing habitats for a wide variety of marine life and acting as natural barriers against destructive weather.

Something for everyone

Beaches offer a wealth of activities, making them a perfect destination for individuals, families and friends. From laying on the sand with a good book, listening to the waves, and taking in the views, to beach games and water sports like paddleboarding and surfing, they help our with mental and physical wellbeing, as well as connecting us to the ocean and our planet. Remember, if you take a picnic (although there’s nothing like a beach for putting the ‘sand’ into ‘sandwiches’!) take reusable containers and utensils to minimise waste and keep the beach clean.

Some of our colleagues made the most of the day with an early finish on Friday, which coincided with the last day of STR’s Summer Trading Hours initiative for the year. Hitting the beach with a BBQ and drinks, our urban team then went on to Southsea Village where they bumped into Talos, joining forces for some shuffleboard and a few pints!

A call to action

Another purpose of this day is to raise awareness of the importance of protecting our beaches and  coastlines. Around the world, they’re facing increasing threats from pollution, climate change, and overuse. So, whilst we enjoy these beautiful spaces, it’s also essential to take care of them. Here are some top tips to make sure you’re doing your bit.

1. Beach cleanups

Organise or participate in a beach cleanup. Removing litter not only beautifies the beach but also prevents debris from entering the ocean, where it can harm marine life. STR often enjoys a good beach cleanup! Whether that’s at our local places of special interest, or helping get Portsmouth’s waterfront ready for the D-Day celebrations earlier this year.

• Reduce single-use plastics

One of the biggest threats to our oceans is plastic waste. By reducing the use of single-use plastics like straws, bottles and bags, you can help minimise pollution and protect marine ecosystems.

• Respect wildlife

Beaches are home to a variety of wildlife, from nesting turtles to shorebirds. It’s tempting to get close when you see something interesting or exotic, but it’s essential to give wildlife plenty of space, avoid disturbing habitats, and follow local guidelines to ensure these animals can thrive.

• Support conservation efforts

Consider supporting organisations that work to protect coastal environments and marine life. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, your can have a significant impact. Find out more about the STR Group’s work in sustainability, fundraising and education here: https://www.strgroup.co.uk/about-us/csr

Appreciation and preservation

National Beach Day is more than just a day to enjoy the sun and sand – it’s an opportunity to reflect on the importance of our coastlines and take action to protect them. By practising sustainability and advocating for beach conservation, we can ensure that these beautiful environments remain so and stay accessible for everyone to enjoy. So, whenever you visit the beach, remember to relax and have fun with a spirit of appreciation and responsibility.

Join the team

Are you interested in a career in recruitment? Do you want to work for a company that cares about its local environment and community and takes action to help see it thrive? The great news is that the STR Group is looking for Graduate talent right now! Contact Iona, our Talent Acquisition Team Leader, on 02392 322308 or email iona@strgroup.co.uk to find out more and get your application started today!