MCS: Lancashire area group

Beachwatch and Adopt-a-Beach

Beach litter projects (updated June 2008)

For more than five years now members and supporters of the Group have been carrying out beach cleans and litter surveys on two beaches near Heysham, Lancashire. The surveys have been conducted on a quarterly basis, in spring, summer, autumn and winter. This gives us some indication of seasonal variations in quantity and types of litter to be found on the beach.

Our surveys have shown that 37.3% of the litter is attributable to beach visitors in the form of crisp and sweet wrappers, drinks bottles, cans and fast food containers.

Sewage related items account for more than 8% of the total items collected and 60% of all the litter is made from plastic.

Did you know that marine litter:-

• KILLS and harms both birds and marine wildlife through entanglement in and ingestion of plastics.
• Poses a HEALTH RISK to beach visitors.
• DAMAGES local economies through clean-up costs and loss of tourism revenue.

Can YOU help to turn the tide on marine litter?

Why not come along and join us on our next survey, wear suitable clothing and footwear and bring gardening gloves.

For date and details of our next survey see our diary page.