This video is part of AARP’s Real People, Real Stories series, which celebrates inspiring individuals whose actions positively impact their communities. In this episode, we focus on 84-year-old Susan Baur and her group, Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage (OLAUG), a team of women aged 65 and older who volunteer to clean polluted ponds throughout Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Our main goal was to highlight the connection between environmental activism and healthy aging, showcasing how older adults are taking the lead in protecting and restoring local ecosystems. OLAUG members, many of whom are retired professionals, remove harmful debris from local waters, including discarded fishing gear, beverage containers, and plastics. Their efforts contribute to the health of both aquatic life and the broader ecosystem.
By sharing their story, we aimed to raise awareness of localized water pollution and inspire viewers to take responsibility for environmental issues in their own communities. We also wanted to position AARP as a champion of age-positive and purpose-driven storytelling. The video seeks to demonstrate that environmental advocacy doesn’t have to rely solely on large-scale operations or youth-led movements; it can begin with a few passionate individuals of any age or gender and evolve into a powerful example of community-driven conservation.
Through AARP’s social channels, we aimed to amplify their work and encourage others to find inspiration in nature, community, and the ability to make a difference, regardless of age.
To bring this story to life, AARP partnered with a local production crew in the Cape Cod region to authentically document the inspiring efforts of Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage (OLAUG). Our approach combined documentary-style realism with cinematic storytelling, enabling viewers to witness the environmental impact of the group’s work while forging an emotional connection with its members.
Filming took place on-site at Peters Pond in Sandwich, Massachusetts, where we captured the OLAUG team in action as they dove beneath the surface to retrieve discarded pollutants—bottles, fishing gear, and other debris. To ensure both visual richness and environmental accuracy, we employed professional-grade cameras above and below the waterline. Shooting from boats at a safe distance preserved the authenticity of the cleanup process without disrupting the volunteers. Natural lighting was used throughout, and high-quality audio was recorded using boom and lavalier microphones to maintain clarity in challenging outdoor conditions.
At the heart of the story is Susan Baur, OLAUG’s founder and our primary interview subject. We filmed her in a sit-down format at her home in Falmouth, guided by research-informed questions that explored her motivations for starting the group, how she built the team, and what the mission means to her and its members. Her insights formed the emotional backbone of the narrative.
During the cleanup shoot, we also conducted spontaneous interviews with other OLAUG members to capture a range of voices and perspectives. Their unscripted reflections revealed the dual impact of their work: improving the environment while enhancing their own physical and emotional well-being. Many shared that they joined not only to help the planet but also to stay active and socially connected in retirement—underscoring the multifaceted benefits of their mission.
A key storytelling goal was to highlight the camaraderie and shared sense of purpose among the women. In addition to live footage, we incorporated archival photos and videos to illustrate the group’s evolution and long-standing commitment. This visual contrast between past and present emphasized the sustainability of their efforts and the strength of their bond.
The final video weaves together cinéma vérité sequences, structured interviews, and textured b-roll of the surrounding environment. This layered approach allowed us to show—not just tell—the story. Viewers could see algae-covered debris being pulled from the water, hear firsthand what drives these women, and feel the joy they experience working together toward a common cause.
Ultimately, this piece celebrates both environmental stewardship and community connection. It demonstrates how ordinary people, at any age, can lead powerful movements to protect natural ecosystems while building friendships and fostering meaningful change.
This video has had over 118K views and reached more than 150K people across AARP’s online accounts. Viewers connected with Baur and the “Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage” with many expressing inspiration and a desire to launch similar local efforts to protect the environment in their own communities.
The OLAUG group has grown to 30 members and cleans six ponds per year (which are up to 30 acres each in size). Their notoriety, and our video coverage, caught the attention of “The Drew Barrymore Show” who donated $10,000 to their cause in the fall of 2024.
Here are comments from supportive audience members on Facebook:
“We were there with these women when they cleaned our pond. John's Pond in Mashpee, MA.”
“YOU ARE THE GOLDEN GIRLS
LOVE ❤️ YOUR WORK IN CARING FOR CONSERVATION AND LOOKING AFTER THE ENVIRONMENT.WHERE DO YOU GIRLS HIDE YOUR WINGS 🪽 🪽.”
“I'm obsessed! We love snorkeling and cleaning up in our home state. -youngish lady against underwater garbage in Maine”
“Women have been doing the work of conservation for decades at all ages of their lives. Women being active in their 60s to 80s shouldn’t be surprising. If you want it done, ask a woman.”
“There is a quiet wave building of litter pickers, beach pickers and underwater clean ups around the globe. Good on everyone who joins in! Earth loving, nature loving people, of all ages, leading by example! May good karma come your way 😎”
