The Sound of the Waves, The Call to Action
The morning air is crisp, the tide gently rolls in, and the familiar sound of waves crashing against the shore is interrupted only by the chatter of volunteers gathering for a common cause. Gloves on, bags in hand, and boots sinking slightly into the damp sand, we get to work. Plastic bottles, tangled fishing lines, bits of Styrofoam—each piece removed is a step toward restoring the coastline to its natural beauty. This is The Driftwood Collective, a grassroots initiative with a simple but powerful mission: to keep our coastlines clean and wild.
Why It Matters
Plastic pollution is one of the biggest threats to our oceans. Each year, millions of tons of plastic waste enter marine ecosystems, breaking down into micro-plastics that contaminate our water, harm marine life, and eventually make their way into our food supply. According to a study by the Ocean Conservancy, over 8 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean each year, endangering species from seabirds to whales. By removing plastic from our coastlines before it reaches the water, we not only protect marine ecosystems but also preserve the natural beauty of our beaches, ensuring that the only thing we leave behind are footprints.
What is The Driftwood Collective?
Founded by Island Life Apparel Inc., The Driftwood Collective is a community-driven beach cleanup initiative that brings people together across British Columbia to protect and restore the coastline. Once a month, we’ll gather at a different beach—on the mainland and the islands—to remove plastic waste and other debris. Everyone is welcome to join, whether you're a lifelong local, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a meaningful way to give back.
Who We Are
My name is Michael, and I’m the founder of Island Life Apparel, as well as a teacher in West Vancouver. I spent years living on Vancouver Island and have always felt deeply connected to the Pacific Northwest’s rugged coastline. Due to my commitments to teaching and coaching rugby, my availability to travel can be unpredictable, which means cleanup locations will vary. However, I am committed to organizing events on both the mainland and the islands, including Hornby Island, Salt Spring Island, Bowen Island, and various locations on Vancouver Island.
For me, The Driftwood Collective is more than just a cleanup effort—it’s a reason to stay connected to these incredible places and ensure they remain beautiful for generations to come.
How It Works
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Monthly Beach Cleanups – Each month, we meet at a different beach with supplies to collect and remove waste.
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Bring Your Own Gear – Participants are encouraged to bring their own gloves, tongs, boots, and garbage bags if they have them. We’ll also have some available for those who need them.
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Sort & Recycle – After each cleanup, we’ll sort recyclables from general waste, ensuring that anything eligible for return deposits is collected. All proceeds from returned materials will be donated to Bay Cetology, a marine research facility dedicated to the conservation of whales and other marine species in the Pacific Northwest.
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Prizes & Giveaways – To thank our volunteers, sponsors will provide apparel, drinks, snacks, and other eco-friendly goodies as participation rewards.
2025 Cleanup Schedule:
Vancouver - Kits Beach | Sunday, March 30th | 10:00 - 12:00
Victoria - Cadboro Bay Beach | Saturday, April 19th | 10:00 - 12:00
Hornby Island - Big Tribune Bay Beach | Sunday, May 18th | 10:00 - 12:00
Vancouver - Kits/Jericho Beach | Sunday, June 1st | 11:00 - 2:00
Bowen Island - Snug Cove Beach | Saturday, June 21st | 10:00 - 12:00
Gibsons - Armours Beach | Sunday, July 6th | 10:00 - 12:00
August - Time and Location TBD
Join the Movement
The Driftwood Collective is about more than just cleaning beaches—it’s about building a community of people who care about protecting our coastlines and giving back to the place we call home.
While we have a tentative schedule for upcoming cleanups, dates and locations are subject to change. Beach locations will be voted on weekly, so follow along to share your input on which beaches need attention in your area. If there’s a spot you think we’ve missed, let us know!
To receive updates, location details, and sponsorship/prize options for each event, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media @islandlifeapparel.inc
Be a Part of the Change
Whether you join us for one cleanup or make it a monthly ritual, your efforts will make a lasting impact. By working together, we can restore and maintain the bountiful beauty of the Pacific Northwest—one beach at a time.
Follow us for updates, event details, and ways to get involved. The ocean needs us, and together, we can make a difference.