A guide to litter picking by canals

With around 39 million items of litter accumulating on our towpaths and in canal waters each year, we need your support in helping make our canals litter-free places to be.

Whether you collect one piece, or a whole bag full, when we act together, small actions can make a big difference.

How to do a canalside litter pick

1. Find a safe location: Decide where to do your litter pick – urban areas along a canal or river often have the most items of rubbish. Spots around bridges and where people get on and off the towpath could also be great places to head to. Here’s where to find your local canal or river.
2. Be prepared: Think about what you might need before heading out – this could include:

• gloves and a litter picker if you have one
• hand wipes or sanitiser
• a bag to collect the plastics and litter to take home and recycle
• mobile phone or tablet to log your pick on our interactive map

3. Share your story: Don't forget to tag @canalrivertrust on social media

What to do with your recycling

There are limited bins and recycling points along our canals and rivers, so where possible please take what you’ve collected home and recycle what you can. Alternatively, find your nearest recycling centre when you’re out and about.

Visit our rubbish and recycling page for more information.

Safety tips

Remember:

• We encourage people to head out in groups, rather than individually. However, if you are litter picking alone, let someone know where you're going and what time you expect to be back
• Always use gloves or a litter picker
• Always cover cuts and grazes before you start
• Wash your hands after the pick before you eat, drink or touch your face

Stay safe:

• Don't reach into the water - always stay away from the water's edge
• Don't climb up or down any embankments, over any barriers or try to reach the off-side of the water
• Don't reach into any areas that you cannot see clearly
• Don't touch sharp items such as glass, or any bulky items which are too heavy to lift
• Don't handle any sharps, needles, dead animals or dog poo
• Don't take any risks

If there has been heavy or persistent rain in your area recently, find out more about water safety during flooding before organising your litter pick.

Reporting a problem

If you see anything dangerous, sharp, heavy or hazardous, do not pick it up. Report it to us on 0303 040 4040 or on our Contact Us page

Litter picking with children

Litter picking is a great way to spend time outdoors with family and friends. Help them enjoy their challenge safely.