Organisations and businesses across Dumfries and Galloway are being invited to take part in a new initiative from Zero Waste Scotland to tackle litter at the source and reduce its impact on the community.
The initiative supports organisations and businesses to change behaviours and attitudes towards litter and fly tipping among their staff, customers, service users and volunteers. It provides a unique opportunity for organisations across the public, private and third sectors to demonstrate a positive influence on Dumfries and Galloway’s area.
Participants to the initiative will pledge a set of actions to help prevent litter and fly-tipping and to change behaviours. These could be as simple as putting posters up to discourage littering, storing waste correctly and making sure any external areas are cleared of litter. They will receive free support from Zero Waste Scotland to deliver their plans and are encouraged to share their success with organisations across the Local Authority area.
Each year over 15,000 tonnes of litter are discarded in Scotland. Litter has a substantial impact on Scotland’s environment, economy and communities, and dealing with litter and fly-tipping costs more than £50 million a year in public money. Local economies and businesses also suffer from the effects of litter. A business’s reputation can be damaged when its products or packaging are the cause of littering, and littered streets reduce the popularity of local tourist spots.
Dumfries and Galloway Council encourage all local organisations to get involved
Andy Ferguson, Chair of Communities Committee said;
“Litter prevention is much more effective than litter picking alone. That is why I would encourage all organisations and businesses to develop Litter Prevention Action Plans and lead the fight against litter in our Council area.”
Vice Chair of Communities Committee, John Martin added;
“From schools and scout troops to fast food franchises and supermarkets, all organisations can lead the way in cutting out litter and keeping the community clean. I encourage all organisations to join the Litter Prevention Action Plans initiative and help us to keep Dumfries and Galloway clean and prosperous. “
Urging organisations in Dumfries and Galloway to get involved and help cut out litter, David Barnes, Programme Manager for Litter & Fly tipping, Zero Waste Scotland, said;
“It is clear that litter picking and cleaning alone is not a long-term solution to tackling litter across Dumfries and Galloway. That’s why we’re calling on local organisations to take the lead and prevent litter at its source.”
“I look forward to working with the fantastic businesses and organisations throughout Dumfries and Galloway and supporting them to keep the area clean, prosperous and looking great.”Organisations in Dumfries and Galloway are encouraged to find out more and sign up to the initiative HERE or email [email protected]
