Now that the weekend is here, many families will be hitting the beaches and parks that are part of the Islands' allure. For decades, locals and tourists alike have gathered at these spots to enjoy and appreciate our environment.

Now, we have an opportunity to give something back.

With more and more people using our parks and beaches, litter has become a growing problem. How many times have we come across broken glass, cigarette butts and rubbish on the beach?

Today, you can make a difference by taking part in Nani 'O Wai'anae's annual Great Hawai'i Cleanup. From 8 a.m. to noon, volunteers will gather at 25 sites to tackle litter at beaches, parks, schools and neighborhoods. Local businesses also will be cleaning areas at their sites.

The event is part of Great American Cleanup day, a national effort to improve communities.

"People can create litter, and people can stop it," said Katy Kok, executive director Nani 'O Wai'anae, a nonprofit focusing on preserving Hawai'i's beauty and environment.

Kok is anticipating more than 5,000 volunteers at today's cleanup — but there's plenty of room for more.

We are fortunate to live in a state where natural beauty abounds. Let's do all we can — today and every day — to keep it that way.