This autumn, we are calling upon volunteers to dust off those trusty litter pickers, pledge their support and take part in our Marine Clean Cymru campaign, targeting rivers, waterways, and beaches across Wales.

After the success of Spring Clean Cymru, the message is simple – join in and pledge to pick up as much litter as you can during the campaign. You might choose to pick up just one bag, or you could set yourself a goal of collecting as many as you can.

This year, we have teamed up with the Marine Conservation Society, targeting beaches around the Welsh coast and will coincide with the Great British Beach Clean, the UK’s largest national beach cleaning and litter survey programme. The aim is to gather vital data that will be used to identify the specific problems our seas and coasts are facing.

Marine litter is a growing threat to our aquatic and coastal environment, with 80% coming from land-based sources. Most litter found in our waterways eventually makes its way into our oceans, so it is an issue which is not only relevant to coastal areas. The problem needs to be stopped at source, keeping our beaches and waterways clean so wildlife can thrive, and we can make the most of our beautiful environment.

Marine Clean Cymru is returning for the first time since October 2019 before the pandemic and runs from Friday 16 September to Sunday 9 October 2022, targeting all waterways throughout Wales, including rivers, streams, canals, and estuaries. From your favourite beach to the quiet stream in your village, you can make a difference and help tackle marine litter.

Aside from improving your local environment, litter picking is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors at one of the most wonderful times of the year.

Want to take part in our Marine Clean Cymru campaign but don’t live near the coast?

Don’t worry as our campaign covers all waterways including rivers, streams, canals, lakes and reservoirs so there’ll be lots of events going on throughout Wales.

To find an event near you: https://keepwalestidy.cymru/events/

To register an event yourself:  https://keepwalestidy.cymru/caru-cymru/marine-clean-cymru-2022/