Moray Firth groups encouraged to join beach clean events
Organisations and individuals have been encouraged to get involved with an ambitious series of beach cleans and marine litter surveys.
The Moray Firth Coastal Partnership (MFCP) and the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) are teaming up to carry out the events over the Great British Beach Clean period from September 20-29.
The beaches of the Moray Firth offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of people’s busy lives. The coastline, however, harbours an ever-growing problem of rising marine litter levels.
Marine conservation coordinator for the MFCP Matt Barnes said: “Litter on our beaches not only ruins the aesthetic beauty of the area, it can harm our children and endangers marine life.
“Birds and marine creatures often mistake plastic debris for food, leading to ingestion and suffering.
“We are bringing people together of all ages and backgrounds to actively participate in a collective effort to clean up our shores.
“It fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility for our environment”
The beach clean series will also have an element of citizen science as volunteers will help to collect valuable data on the types and quantities of litter found on the beaches.
This data helps environmental organisations and policymakers make informed decisions to combat marine pollution such as the single use plastic bag charge and removal of plastic stemmed cotton buds
Visit the MCS website to find details about the local beach clean events.
