Trash capture solutions that protect coastal communities and ecosystems

Trash pollution is a growing challenge for coastal communities, threatening ecosystems and community well-being. Downstream impacts on municipal beaches can be severe, affecting both environmental health and quality of life.

This is a notable issue in California, and the lessons learned here can apply elsewhere. Southern California municipalities are deploying innovative solutions from simple booms and drain inserts to advanced hydrodynamic separators and water wheels. These technologies are helping prevent trash from reaching beaches and waterways, reducing pollution and safeguarding coastal ecosystems.

We partnered with The Ocean Cleanup on California’s first permitted trash capture project in Ballona Creek. We’re also working with the cities of Long Beach, Seal Beach, and Newport Beach on strategies to protect ecosystems and improve community health.

Our environmental and wet weather teams can share insights on:

• Key considerations for installing trash-capture systems
• Lessons learned from successful installations and community partnerships
• How these solutions support equitable access to clean waterways