San Diego Coastkeeper


Support the Pacific Protection Initiative!

Help Safeguard California's Environmental Future
April 16th, 2007

San Diego Coastkeeper is sponsoring and supporting a flotilla of five California state bills addressing the problem of marine debris.

The legislative package, called "Marine Debris: The Pacific Protection Initiative", targets the growing amount of plastic trash that is fouling the Pacific Ocean and threatening marine life:

  • Assembly Bill 258 - Would require the State Water Board and Regional Water Boards to implement a program to control discharges of pre-production plastic pellets used to make plastic products, commonly known as "nurdles," into rivers and streams. Governor Schwarzenegger signed this bill into law October 15, 2007.
  • Senate Bill 898 - Would require the California Integrated Waste Management Board to address derelict (abandoned) fishing gear, such as lines and nets and to assign resin code labeling for bioplastics.
  • Senate Bill 899 - Would implement a phased-ban of toxic additives in plastic packaging, such as Bisphenol-A, which mimics the sex hormone estrogen.
  • Assembly 904 - Would require that takeout food packaging be made from recyclable or compostable materials starting July 1, 2012.
  • Assembly Bill 820 - Would prohibit the sale or distribution of expanded polystyrene (foam) food containers at state facilities starting Jan. 1, 2009.

By targeting some of the most abundant items that litter our coast and ocean, the Pacific Protection Initiative could foster statewide and potentially global change. To find out more about the Pacific Protection Initiative click here

Help us make these bills law by contacting your Senator or Assembly member and asking for their support. Below are sample support letters for you to use.

Click here to download Assembly Bill Support Letter (MS Word)

Click here to download Senate Bill Support Letter (MS Word)

To find the Senator and Assembly Member of your District click here.


  • Come to the hearing Tuesday, April 18th to take a stand for those that cannot stand for themselves! The Council meeting starts at 10:00 am, but the hearing (Item 105) might not begin until after lunch.
    » City Council Agenda

    City Administration Building
    Council Chambers - 12th Floor
    202 C Street
    San Diego, CA 92101

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    Environmental Groups Unite to Protect La Jolla Seals
    August 6, 2004

    The City Council has docketed the "La Jolla Children's Pool Joint Use Issue" to determine whether to proceed with the dredging of the La Jolla Casa Beach (a.k.a. the Children's Pool). This plan is opposed by a coalition of environmental and community advocates that are calling on the San Diego City Council to oppose the City Manager's recommendation to dredge the beach.

    Please join us in opposing the City Manager's recommendation to dredge the Casa Beach and remove the seals. The City Council will be making their FINAL VOTE on Tuesday, August 10, 2004 as to whether to remove the harbor seals from the Beach. Please voice your opinion to your City Council Members and the Mayor, and join us at the hearing on Tuesday to make a stand for those that cannot stand for themselves!

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