Your wildlife needs you!
The wildlife you love spotting along canals are actually nature's clean-up crew. Swans act as natural water filters, fish work tirelessly to keep the canal ecosystem in perfect balance, and water voles are busy maintaining healthy riverbanks.
But here's the thing - even superheroes need a helping hand. While they're brilliant at their natural jobs, they can't tackle the plastic bottles, crisp packets, and other rubbish that finds its way into their home. That's where human heroes come in.
How to do a canalside litter pick
- Find a safe location: Decide where to do your Plastics Challenge litter pick – urban areas along a canal or river often have the most plastics and litter. 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.
- 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
- camera or camera phone to take photos of your litter-busting efforts
- Share your story: Don't forget to tag @canalrivertrust and use #PlasticsChallenge on social media
