Lifelong Encinitan Mark O’Connor has a passion for community. A retired Sergeant, he worked for the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department for 28 years – 14 of those in Encinitas. Upon retiring he bought back his Encinitas childhood home. Married for 40 years, Mark has two sons and four grandchildren.
“About six years ago, I began my own beach cleanups and found myself putting debris in my pockets. I started bringing a small bag with me, and soon realized that I needed a bucket and grabber. I wanted to do more, and now volunteer for Surfrider Foundation’s San Diego chapter.”
“It was during this time that my first grandchild was born. I had been learning about the dangers of plastics and decided to dedicate my volunteer hours to my grandson.”
“Plastic is in the water we drink, air we breathe and the food we eat. Studies show plastic, which is a carcinogen, is now in our bodies and blood. It is harming not only the environment but each of us. I dedicate my time now to all of my grandchildren in the hopes that we make the planet a healthier place for all to live.”
Mark was appointed to the Encinitas Environmental Commission three years ago. “This was a great opportunity for me to take the work I was doing across the county with Surfrider and focus on improving the way of life in Encinitas.”
The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce supports green initiatives so Mark joined their Environmental Sustainability Committee. “I saw this as a great opportunity to join the Chamber and make a further impact in the community.”
What simple things can people do to reduce waste?
“Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. I’ve been attending the Chamber Coffee Connections at Broad Street Dough Co. At the first meeting there were about 25 members that got a cup of coffee; only three had reusable metal coffee mugs. I mentioned why reusable was better, and by the next meeting half of the attendees brought a metal mug. Now wherever or whenever they go for coffee, they set the right example for others to follow.”
Perfect day in Encinitas…
Take my Golden Retriever Gordon out for his morning walk. Then grab my beach hat, bucket and grabbers and head down to Beacon’s or Swami’s beach. I return home to my grandkids coming over to play and head back down to the beach. I love my life in Encinitas!”
