Plastics Challenge Guide

How to complete the challenge

1. Find a safe location: Decide where to do your Plastics Challenge – urban areas along a canal or river often have the most plastics and litter. However, spots around bridges and where people get on and off the towpath could be great spots 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 to take your Plastics Challenge – this could include:

• gloves or a litter picker if you have one
• hand wipes or sanitiser
• a bag to collect the plastics and litter to carry home and recycle
• camera or camera phone to take photos of your Plastics Challenge

3. Share your story: Don't forget to tag @canalrivertrust and use #PlasticsChallenge on social platforms.

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:

• If heading out 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 an awesome way to spend time outdoors with family and friends. Help them enjoy their challenge safely.