Let’s Talk About Litter

Litter is everywhere - on our streets, in our parks, scattered along riverbanks and even in the countryside. It’s frustrating to see and it’s easy to feel like someone else should deal with it. After all, isn’t that what the council is for?

Well, yes - and no. The reality is that litter is a problem far bigger than local councils can handle alone. Despite their efforts and the hard work of street cleaners, the scale of the issue requires all of us to pitch in. 
The good news? Across the UK, amazing groups and individuals are already stepping up to make a difference. They’re out there, rolling up their sleeves and picking up the rubbish others leave behind. But here’s the thing - we need more people to join in. Because when we all work together the impact is incredible. 

Litter: What’s the Big Deal?

Litter isn’t just an eyesore. It’s a problem that affects our communities, our environment, and even our health. 

For communities: Litter makes public spaces look neglected and uncared for. That can discourage people from using parks, playgrounds and other shared areas. It can also foster a cycle of disrespect for the space - if it looks like no one cares, people are more likely to drop more rubbish. 

For wildlife: Animals often mistake litter for food or get tangled in it, leading to injury or even death. Plastic waste in particular breaks down into microplastics that pollute soil and waterways, harming ecosystems. 
For the planet: Litter that ends up in landfills releases harmful greenhouse gases like methane and waste that isn’t disposed of properly contributes to the growing climate crisis. 

But Isn’t That Someone Else’s Job? 

Let’s face it - when we think of litter picking, many of us see it as a punishment or assume it’s a task for council workers. But here’s the truth: councils are stretched thin. Collectively UK local authorities already spend nearly £1 billion a year on cleaning up litter, and it’s still not enough to keep up with the sheer volume being dropped. 

Sometimes, we must be the starting motivation. We need to take ownership of our shared spaces and lead by example. By getting out there and trying, we can show others what’s possible -and sometimes that  positivity is contagious. 

It’s important to remember that everyone who goes out to pick up litter has their own reason for doing it. For some, it’s about creating safe, clean spaces for their community - , a park where children can play safely for example. Others do it to protect wildlife, knowing that even one less plastic bottle could save an animal’s life. Some see it as a great way to spend time with friends, while others enjoy the act of litter picking as part of their own wellness journey - —it’s a way to de-stress, connect with nature, and feel good about making a difference. 

Whatever the reason, the people who volunteer their time to better their community spaces are proving that small actions can add up to something huge.

What Can You Do? 
Here’s where you come in. We need more people - yes, you! - to step up and join the movement. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Here are some simple ways you can make a difference: 

• Borrow litter-picking equipment from a Cleanup Hub: Did you know we have Cleanup Hubs in communities across the UK? These hubs lend out litter-picking kits to anyone who wants to make a difference. It’s an easy way to get started , and you’ll have everything you need to hit the ground running.
• Start your own litter-picking habit: Even if it’s just picking up a few pieces of litter on your walk or while at the park, every bit helps. Consider keeping a small bag and gloves with you for impromptu clean-ups. 
  Involve friends and family: Litter picking doesn’t have to be a chore. Turn it into a fun activity with kids, a mindful outing with friends, or even a competition to see who can collect the most! 
• Reduce your waste: Preventing litter starts with reducing how much waste you produce. Bring reusable bags, bottles, and cups when you’re out and about, and opt for products with minimal packaging. 
• Spread the word: Talk to people about litter and why it matters. Sometimes, just starting the conversation can inspire someone else to take action. 
   
  Looking Ahead 
  As we step into these first weeks of 2025, imagine what we could achieve if more of us got involved. Cleaner streets, safer spaces for wildlife, and thriving communities where people feel proud of where they live. 

Change doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen without effort. But by taking small steps -picking up that piece of rubbish, saying no to single-use plastics, or encouraging a friend to join you - we can create a ripple effect that leads to real transformation. 

So, what do you say? Let’s make 2025 the year we turn the tide on litter. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener UK for everyone to enjoy.