Community clean ups to help keep Edinburgh beautiful have increased significantly over the last three years. This is a case of doing it yourself if you want something done….
As a result of several initiatives including the Services for Communities ‘Edenburgh’ campaign – the number of community litter-picks has more than trebled over the last three years.
In 2007, over 1,200 volunteers who took part in litter picks, however this has increased dramatically to over 5,000 volunteers in 2010.
For a number of years the City of Edinburgh Council has been involved in the National Spring Campaign alongside Keep Scotland Beautiful – to encourage local residents to become involved in clean ups.
These types of activities prevent litter and fly-tipping, as well as educating people on the rubbish they throw away and the impact this can have on their local community.
Over the last three years, groups of local people, voluntary organisations and schools have all contributed to making Edinburgh a stunning capital city.
Councillor Robert Aldridge, Environmental leader at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This is fantastic news as community clean ups all contribute to making Edinburgh a cleaner and greener city. These activities also benefit the local community, with everyone helping to make their local neighbourhoods cleaner and more attractive.
“I would like to say a big ‘thanks’ to all the volunteers who have been giving up their free time over the years, to keep our reputation as – one of the most beautiful cities in Britain.”
Donna Niven, of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “We’d like to thank all the volunteers who have taken part in litter picks across Edinburgh this year. We are working towards a Zero Waste Scotland so the simple act of clearing litter taken by these volunteers will make a real difference to local communities and visitors to the city; giving people a more pleasant environment to enjoy.”
Free clean up kits can be ordered on line at www.keepscotlandtidy.org/springclean
To arrange a community clean up contact Lorna Farquhar, Task Force Manager, the City of Edinburgh Council on 0131 529 5821.
