Malibu Receives Recognition For Ocean Protection Efforts

Malibu CA

12 October, 2021

5:01 PM

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MALIBU, CA — The City of Malibu received recognition for its efforts to protect the ocean, including banning plastics and declaring a "climate emergency." Project O, a non-profit organization focused on ocean protection, awarded the city a "Blue City" certificate, recognizing the city's commitment to protecting waterways and oceans. The certificate is part of the as part of their Blue City Network program. "Malibu's lifestyle revolves around enjoying our beautiful ocean and mountain surroundings, and the City was founded on principles of environmental protection, so we are honored to be named a Blue City," said Mayor Paul Grisanti in a news release about the award. "We have a long record as a leader on environmental policies and protections and we look forward to collaborating with fellow Blue Cities on environmental issues." The organization noted Malibu's ban on plastic straws and other single-use plastics in 2008 and in 2017 an example of the city's stand-out protection efforts. Additionally, the organization applauded Malibu's joining the Clean Power Alliance, an organization that partners with cities in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties to promote sustainable energy use. In 2020 Malibu launched a project to restore dune habitats along the coastline, as dunes are an important protection for coastal habitats and wildlife amid rising sea levels and storms, according to the city. The organization also noted Malibu's efforts to prevent pollution to waterways, and the city's 2019 declaration of a "climate emergency" along with over 1,000 cities across the nation. The certification included an evaluation of Malibu's efforts in four main categories: waste minimization, climate protection, water quality and efficiency and ecosystem health. Malibu scored 360 of 500 possible points on the evaluation, said Evelina Marchetti, Executive Director of Operations for the Blue City Network. Malibu can still strive for a higher tier of certification, and Grisanti said the city will begin making plans to improve. Manhattan Beach, Imperial Beach, Solana Beach, Santa Monica and Hermosa Beach are all certified "Blue City beaches." "Our team is very pleased to welcome beautiful Malibu, known for its 27 miles of scenic coastline and sandy beaches, into the Blue City network. We recognize the city as a committed community dedicated to protecting the ocean and waterways,"Marchetti said at Monday's city council meeting.