Help beat the ‘litter emergency’

Community groups and individuals are being urged to play their part in tackling Scotland’s “litter emergency” this spring.

Keep Scotland Beautiful’s Spring Clean initiative will take place from March 17 until April 17 and the environmental charity wants as many people as possible to join in, emphasising that even the smallest actions can make a difference.

The Spring Clean is described as a perfect opportunity to make a difference for those frustrated about the volume of litter in their area or at the country’s beauty spots.

Communities, schools, businesses and other organisations are being encouraged to get involved.

The Scottish Litter Survey, published in December by Keep Scotland Beautiful, highlighted the negative impact litter is continuing to have.

Litter remains a major issue for the public with 67 per cent believing that it is a problem in their local area, while 87 per cent say it is an issue across Scotland.

Barry Fisher, chief executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “It is clear from our research that litter and the ongoing decline in local environmental quality across Scotland is a matter of significant public concern.

“There can be no debate that the litter emergency is here. The time to tackle it is now.

“We have such a strong network of groups across the country that play their part in helping us clean up Scotland, but we can all do more to play our part. Spring Clean is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to make an impact.

“Every action, however small, makes a difference. We would love as many people as possible to take part and help us achieve a clean, green Scotland.”

Keep Scotland Beautiful has a Clean Up Scotland map showing events around the country.

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