Aramco volunteers help preserve Galveston Bay shoreline with beach cleanup project

The shoreline along Galveston Bay looks much cleaner thanks to about 50 volunteers from the Aramco family of companies following a beach cleanup event in July.

Aramco and SABIC employees, friends and family collected 464 pounds of trash along Galveston Bay in Texas City. Galveston Bay is one of the world's most productive estuaries. The preservation project came as part of a longtime partnership with the Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF), a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving the bay for generations to come.

“Shoreline cleanups are a great way to get families involved,” said Lisa Scobel, Galveston Bay Foundation. “Our Marine Debris program allows kids to enjoy the beautiful weather, the scenic view of the bay and see the impact to our environment if trash does not go in a can or get recycled.”

Marine debris destroys vital habitats and can release harmful chemicals that contaminate the water and accumulate in seafood, making it harmful for humans. Wildlife can be harmed and killed by ingesting or becoming tangled in trash.

“By helping with the Marine Debris Program, Aramco is helping protect and enhance the health and sustainability of Galveston Bay as well as honoring our commitment to reduce environmental impact, protect ecosystems, and support biodiversity,” Rania Biltagi, Director - Public Affairs.  

For more than a decade, Aramco has supported the efforts of the Galveston Bay Foundation with sponsorship and volunteers.

“It's just about giving back to the community where we live and work,” said David Gonzalez, Senior Quality Advisor, Technical Services. “Whether it's Texas City, Galveston, or Houston, I just have that nature of being helpful.  No matter if it's people in need or a community in need, Aramco has always supported that effort.”

The beach volunteer event comes ahead of National Estuaries Week, which is held in September 16-23 this year. The GBF will host an annual Marsh Mania event which engages local citizens in hands-on marsh restoration while increasing appreciation of the wetlands. Aramco is a top sponsor and has already donated to help fund this large-scale volunteer event.