Sara Bayles in Santa Monica, CA
Sara Bayles is saving the planet through her Santa Monica beach cleanup project and blog, The Daily Ocean (www.thedailyocean.blogspot.com). KissMyCountry spoke with Sara about her project, her blog – and the places she loves.
Sara’s Commitment
‘The idea came first, and the project came second’ said Sara about spending 365 days – 20 minutes at a time – at Lifeguard Station No. 26 at Ocean Park in Santa Monica. Sara photographs and collects trash from her nearby beach, weighs it, and posts her photos and thoughts about the beach, the ocean, and keeping them trash free. ‘We’d just married and bought a house in Santa Monica, and I wanted to do something.’ Her blog grew from a suggestion by her husband, Garen, that she record her beach cleanup as it was happening.
Making a Difference
‘A beach cleanup can’t change pollution, but it can be a platform to educate and inspire’, says Sara. ‘I wanted to do something local. I’m passionate about ocean conservation, and I want to share what I know. I want to be positive about what people can do. You can always do more, but if you’re doing something, whatever you’re doing is enough.’
What’s Next for Sara
Sara’s already making plans for the future. ‘I feel empowered as an environmental activist, and it’s been a good experience so far’, she says. ‘After the 365 days are over I’d like to turn my blog into a book, especially the photos. I knew I was a writer, but I didn’t consider myself a photographer. And I know I won’t stop collecting trash. I’ll set new goals.’
Places Sara Loves and New Travels
‘My favorite place is South Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii – an hour south of Kona. I feel safe in the water – it’s clear and you can interact with dolphins, sea turtles and manta rays.’ Sara also loves New Zealand. ‘It’s an island nation and I’m fond of islands’, Sara says. ‘The geography is breathtaking, and there’s a great attitude toward the environment. I traveled in New Zealand when they were filming ‘The Lord of the Rings’. I reread the book while I was traveling so that movie is special to me.’ Where will Sara travel next? Sara and her husband traveled to New Orleans for Thanksgiving, visiting a long time friend and mentor. ‘She’s just moved to Avery Island and we stayed at the house she’s remodeling.’ Sara and her husband will visit Spain in the spring. ‘We’re using frequent flyer miles, and we’ll go to Barcelona and Majorca. I can’t wait.’
Sara, we thank you for saving the planet and the places you love. We wish you the best as you finish your 365 days and move on to new goals. We’ll stay in touch and want to hear how it’s going!
