Corpus Christi Earth Day brought renewed energy to the Sparkling City by the Sea, which sometimes loses its shimmer due to roadside litter and beach pollution. To help restore that sparkle, the Coastal Bend Bays Foundation hosted the 26th annual Earth Day-Bay Day festival on April 12 at Heritage Park.
The Corpus Christi Earth Day celebration gathered dozens of nonprofits, vendors, and organizations united by a common goal — protecting and preserving the local environment. Throughout the festival, community members visited booths and interactive displays where groups like the YWCA, Texas State Aquarium, Corpus Christi Animal Care Services, and others shared practical tips on how residents can help keep the Coastal Bend beautiful and thriving.
Skip Single-Use: Bring Your Bottle
One simple yet powerful way to support Corpus Christi Earth Day efforts is by ditching single-use plastic water bottles. Nancy Wesson-Dodd, president and CEO of Corpus Christi’s YWCA, encourages everyone to bring reusable water bottles instead.
“It helps decrease the number of plastic bottles,” Wesson-Dodd explained. “When yours is empty, just refill it without wasting more plastic.”
Supporting the goals of Corpus Christi Earth Day, this small habit can make a big impact. According to Project Clean Water, Americans use nearly 50 million plastic water bottles each year, with the average person consuming 13 bottles per month. Choosing a reusable option helps significantly reduce plastic waste in the community and beyond.
Say Yes to Sustainable Bags
Plastic bags are another top contributor to land and ocean pollution. Ricky Martinez, an educator from the Museum of Science and History, advocates for sustainable tote bags as an eco-friendly alternative.
“We sell recycled tote bags in our gift shop,” Martinez shared. “They’re great for groceries, books, or shopping — and you get to show off a cute design too.”
Not only are they reusable, but National Geographic reports that these bags significantly reduce litter, making them a win for the planet and your wardrobe.
Grow Native, Fight Invasive
For the green thumbs out there, Alex Austin of HDR Engineering advises planting native Texas wildflowers.
“They provide nectar and pollen for insects year-round,” Austin explained. “Eventually, those insects attract birds, creating a healthy ecosystem.”
The National Audubon Society agrees, emphasizing that native plants are crucial for biodiversity and sustaining wildlife.
Follow the Rules When Fishing
Fishing in Corpus Christi is a beloved pastime, but Holly Grand from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department reminds anglers to follow regulations.
“Know the size and number of fish you’re allowed to catch,” she said. “And don’t forget to recycle your fishing line.”
Overfishing harms species like red snapper, which are subject to strict limits. Responsible fishing ensures these species survive for future generations.
Clean Up After Your Pet
Pet ownership comes with responsibilities, and Matilda Perez of Animal Care Services highlighted the importance of cleaning up pet waste.
“Picking up after your dog helps stop the spread of disease,” she explained.
Beyond hygiene, pet waste also affects water quality, making it essential to dispose of it properly.
Trash Isn’t Yours? Pick It Up Anyway
Every piece of trash makes a difference, whether you’re at the beach or in your neighborhood. Neal McQueen from the Surfrider Foundation urges everyone to take the initiative.
“If you see trash, pick it up — even if it’s not yours,” McQueen said. “We all have a role in the solution.”
Litter can harm wildlife and ruin natural experiences for others. A clean environment benefits animals and humans alike.
Knowledge is Power in Conservation
Finally, Caira Johnson from the Texas State Aquarium emphasized education and prevention. The aquarium strongly advocates against ocean littering, citing its long-standing animal rescue program.
“Since 1995, we have admitted over 8,700 animals and released more than 4,000 back into the wild,” she shared. “We want these animals to thrive independently in a clean habitat.”
A Community United for the Coast
From reusable bags to wildlife protection, Corpus Christi residents and organizations are taking meaningful steps to preserve their slice of paradise. Earth Day-Bay Day wasn’t just a celebration — it was a call to action for everyone to take part in creating a cleaner, more sustainable Coastal Bend.