Starting your own team litter pick
In 2022 we’ve started what we call Trash Talking, a monthly team litter picking session.
Here are our 10 tips for getting started.
ALWAYS check the guidance on licking picking in your local area. A quick Google of ‘litter picking’ along with the name of your local council should point you straight to it.
Get yourselves kitted out with litter picking grabbers (or whatever they’re called). Waterhaul.co have ones that are made from recycled ocean plastic 👌🐠
Get some good sized bags. We’ve already been caught out not having enough bags for the amount of waste we’ve found. Prepare to be unpleasantly surprised! While you’re at it, make sure the bin bags are biodegradable.
Use some strong gloves. This will help with any potentially sharp objects, but also keep you clear of any nasties that might be lurking on other people’s rubbish…
Find a good spot. Places where people might hang out after dark are a good place to start!
Only litter pick in public areas. As frustrating as it may be to leave litter behind, you don’t want to be accused of trespassing on private property…
DO NOT litter pick on A-Roads and the surrounding verges, and generally be very careful near any roads.
Litter picking is done at your own risk so take care whilst you do it. You may come across items such as sharp metals, broken glass, large heavy items, asbestos and other potentially hazardous items. If you’re unsure about any object, particularly if it looks to be large or dangerous, leave it and report it to your local council. There is usually a page dedicated to fly-tipping.
When you’re finished picking, dispose of litter safely in litter bins, at home or at your nearest community recycling centre. If there are a few of you and you’re finding a lot of rubbish, it’s a good idea to segregate and have a separate bag for glass, plastic bottles etc…DO NOT place items or bags next to or on top of full litter bins as this counts as fly-tipping…
And finally, do it as a team. Going for a walk on its own is just good for you, but walking and talking as a team and doing some good while you’re at it will just make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
