Explore our evidence
Our data shows common litter issues across Wales. We gather this data yearly through robust litter surveys, using our GLÂN (Geospatial Litter Analysis) methodology.
First, you’ll see the results for the current year, updating between April and November, as data is collected. Previous years can be viewed by navigating the menu at the top. These are published once the survey year ends.
The data shows the estimated number of the items across all public spaces in Wales. These estimates are based on the number of litter items counted during our surveys and the estimated area of all possible survey sites across the country.
If you have any questions about our litter data, please email leq@keepwalestidy.cymru or check the Frequently Asked Questions below.
FAQs
Find out more about our data and evidence.
Geospatial Litter Analysis (GLÂN) is a world leading litter monitoring methodology. GLÂN was created by Keep Wales Tidy and is designed to:
- Provide evidence for environmental policy
- Measure cleanliness in communities across Wales.
Piloted in 2025, GLÂN surveys take place in publicly accessible spaces including streets, car parks, green spaces and bathing water beaches.
GLÂN surveys are conducted by trained staff to record litter and wider local environment quality issues and have replaced the historic methodology called LEAMS which ran from 2007-2024.
All data collection is positive because this provides evidence to enable change.
2025 was the first year of collecting litter data using the GLÂN methodology, so we can’t compare to previous data to say if the litter emergency is getting better or worse.
Each year, we spread surveys over 20% of Wales. By 2030, we will have surveyed sites in every part of the country.
As more data is gathered, comparisons can be made year to year. This can help monitor trends and the impact of policy through time.
It would be impossible for us to visit every public space in Wales every year.
We use a robust system to calculate the number of places we need to survey each year, which ensures our data represents each local authority to a 90% confidence level (and Wales as a whole).
Currently a work in progress, the Welsh Litter Index is an interactive tool to visualise near-live results from our litter surveys. Over time, these results will build a true picture of litter across Wales.
Click here to be taken to the Welsh Litter Index
Please note, the data is currently best viewed on a full desktop screen.
We are also aware that it falls short of our Welsh Language Commitment, so we are working with the platform provider as we explore ways to improve this.
If you have any questions, please email leq@keepwalestidy.cymru.
Live data will appear above between April and November as sites are surveyed. The final extrapolated figures are updated once a survey year is completed – typically before the end of the calendar year.
Previous years can be viewed by navigating the menu at the top.
Every time you fill out this form, you are helping to build a better picture of volunteer activity across Wales.
Go to eCount CymruWe have a dedicated team of experts who continually research, monitor and analyse local environmental quality (LEQ) issues such as litter and dog fouling.
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