SC Beach Boardwalk is Surprisingly Eco-Conscious

Such fond memories, Credit

That classic jingle will forever be deeply imbedded into my mind:

"At the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, in the warm California sun--BOARDWALK!"

I spent many long summer days at the boardwalk, riding the up-jumped carnival rides and playing in the cold, cold water. No matter how cheesy, grungy, or dumpy the Boardwalk appears, it will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Who doesn't love the rickety-old Sea Swings? Credit

While reminiscing about my summers past, I never would imagine that this iconic California "theme park" would also host a eco-consciousness and commitment to environmental preservation.

That's why I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the boardwalk, in fact, does have a green mindset. Their Eco Profile notes that they are in close proximity to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and that they are dedicated to preserving it.

The Boardwalk also boarders the Monterey Bay Aquarium, home to the ever-adorable California Sea Otters, Credit

The Boardwalk also boasts an award-winning recycling program, which is recognized by both the city and the State.

With nearly 2 million visitors per year, this is an impressive feat, Credit

Their webpage also boasts a plethora of green efforts, including:

• "Recycling or reusing approximately 180 tons of material annually
• Reclaiming approximately 1 million gallons of water annually for landscaping and other non-potable water applications
• Installing waterless urinals and low-flush toilets in 2008 and beyond
• Prohibiting the use of polystyrene (Styrofoam) at all Boardwalk food locations
• Installing the first solar powered trash compactors in Northern California
• Recycling oil generated from vehicles and rides, green waste generated from landscaping, and electronic waste
• Cleaning the beach in front of the Boardwalk daily during the Spring and Summer
• Participating in valued community programs such as Coastal Clean-Up Day and Bike-to-Work Day
• Providing discounted bus passes, as well as bicycle and skateboard locker to encourage employee use of alternative transportation
• Providing electric vehicles for maintenance crew"

Who knew that this park full of cheap summer thrills and disposable waste would be doing such a good job towards reducing their environmental impact? Good for you, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk!

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