The Growing Problem of Litter….and how you can help
Littering has long been an issue in the UK, but in recent years it has reached alarming levels. From urban streets and rural lanes to coastal paths, beaches and national parks, the sight of discarded waste is becoming far too familiar. Despite widespread awareness campaigns and local clean-up efforts, the problem persists—and in some areas, it’s getting worse.
Litter isn’t just an eyesore; it’s a serious environmental, social, and economic issue. Rubbish left on streets or in natural spaces can:
- Harm wildlife: Animals often ingest or get entangled in litter, leading to injury or death.
- Pollute water systems: Plastic bottles, bags, and cigarette butts often end up in rivers and oceans, contributing to the global marine pollution crisis.
- Cost taxpayers money: Councils in the UK spend around £1 billion a year on street cleaning and litter removal.
- Reduce community pride: Dirty, littered areas can lead to decreased property values and a rise in antisocial behaviour.
So what’s Causing the Rise in Litter?
Several factors contribute to the litter problem in the UK.
- Increased takeaway culture: The rise of fast food, single-use packaging, and outdoor eating has led to more waste being left in public spaces.
- Lack of bins and poor waste management: In some areas, there simply aren’t enough bins—or they’re not emptied frequently enough.
- Careless attitudes: Despite anti-littering laws, enforcement is patchy. Many people still see dropping litter as a minor offence or someone else’s responsibility.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK saw a dramatic increase in litter, especially in beauty spots and public parks. With more people socialising outdoors, takeaway containers, disposable masks, and bottles were often left behind. Volunteer clean-up groups reported record amounts of waste, a trend that sadly hasn’t reversed completely post-pandemic
So what can you do to help?
Tackling litter requires a combined effort from individuals, communities, businesses, and government. There are more than 200 @keepwalestidy.cymru Litter Picking Hubs open across Wales. They offer all the equipment you need to carry out a safe clean-up to keep your local area loved and cared for. The kit includes litter pickers, hi-vis vests, rubbish bags, and hoops – essential for keeping your bags open in breezy conditions.
One such litter picking hub is based at the busy Ogmore by Sea community hall. We have seen many groups, charities, businesses and individuals already, organising their own litter picking days and events. You too can get involved. We’ve seen brownies groups, government departments, private companies and concerned residents and volunteers. Whether you live in the area or outside, everyone is welcome to the hub to borrow the kit and to help with this problem of litter. You can choose where and when to go and you can use local pubs and cafes to rest, to eat and drink and to meet other litter pickers.
AND IT’S ALL FOR FREE!
Contact Martin the hall manager on 07761 708807 / info.ogmorehall@gmail.com…or… Chris Jones on 07779 712293 / chris.jones46@btinternet.com to discuss dates and times and to have a further chat about the litter picking hub and what’s available.
Final Thoughts
Litter is a problem that affects us all, and it won’t go away on its own. While it may seem like a small act to drop a crisp packet or leave a coffee cup behind, the cumulative effect is massive. The UK in general needs a cultural shift—where keeping our surroundings clean is the norm, not the exception.
Everyone has a part to play. Whether it’s picking up after yourself or joining a clean-up group, small actions can create big change. Let’s take pride in our spaces and make littering a thing of the past.
