Three campus clubs at Fullerton Union High School are uniting for a common goal: safeguarding their local environment and preventing trash from reaching the ocean.
National Geographic estimates that around 80 percent of ocean plastic originates from land-based sources — with the remaining 20 percent stemming from marine sources including boats.
Guided by Danica Perez, an AP environmental science teacher and advisor to the Environmental Science Club, student co-presidents Ansal Esquivas and Ella Kirby collaborated with peers from the Alliance for Sustainability and STEM Scholars clubs on campus. Their joint efforts aimed to combat pollution and amplify awareness surrounding environmental stewardship.
“Our mission is to cultivate a community of environmentally conscious individuals dedicated to understanding, addressing and advocating for sustainable practices,” Danica Perez said. “Through education, outreach and hands-on initiatives, we aim to raise awareness about environmental issues, inspire positive change and foster a deep appreciation for the natural world.”
At the inaugural cleanup event, more than 30 students representing the three clubs combed through both the Fullerton Union Joint High School District campus and an adjoining parking lot, successfully gathering six large bags filled with waste.
“I am most proud as an educator to see that my students took what they learned in my AP Environmental Science class and applied their knowledge to create real tangible solutions for local environmental issues,” said Perez.
Following their meetup, the clubs have observed a noticeable change among fellow students, with some individuals who previously might have overlooked the issue of littering now showing increased awareness.
As forecasts predict increased rainfall in the fall and coming winter seasons, club members are doubling down on their commitment to unite for monthly cleanups and to inspire their school community.