Organising a Litter Pick: Tips and Tricks
How to organise a litter pick as a small team/business
At SO Recycle, we’re a team that cares deeply about our environment and community. Recently, this passion led us on a journey that started with a simple lunchtime walk and ended with a meaningful effort to clean up our local area through a litter pick.
A few weeks ago, Kealan, our dedicated account manager, noticed litter along the roads during her lunch break. We are incredibly fortunate to work in a beautiful area like Andover and we knew we had to take action. So, several of us decided to spend part of our day picking up litter. It wasn’t just about cleaning; it was about coming together, reconnecting with our community, and making a positive impact.
Our litter pick was a success in many ways. We picked up a bunch of litter and, what’s even better, it brought us closer together as a team. We saw how even small efforts can make our environment better and made us appreciate it more. It’s clear one clean-up won’t fix everything, but it reminded us why we’re committed to sustainability and inspired us to keep pushing forward.
After this experience, we want to encourage other local businesses to join us. We believe activities like this not only clean our surroundings but also educate and inspire responsibility for our environment.
But pulling off a successful litter pick takes some planning and thought. Looking back, we’ve spotted a few areas where we can step it up next time. To help other businesses avoid common pitfalls and make their own litter picks successful, we’ve put together a practical guide.
Identify Areas Needing Clean-Up
Start by scouting your local area to identify spots that need litter picking. Parks, roadsides, and public spaces are usually good places to start.
Gather Essential Supplies
- Trash bags
- Gloves (reusable and durable)
- Litter pickers or grabbers
- High-visibility vests
- Hand sanitizer
- First aid kit
- Water and snacks for volunteers
Choose the Right Time
Find a time that works for most of your team. Consider afternoons when work is typically slower. Check the weather forecast to pick a day with good weather.
Promote Friendly Competition
Motivate your team by organizing a friendly competition. See who can collect the most litter or find the most unusual item. Offer small prizes or incentives to keep the energy high and make it fun.
Ensure Safety and Hygiene
Brief your team on safety protocols, including handling sharp objects and avoiding hazardous waste. Encourage everyone to wear appropriate clothing and stay hydrated.
Celebrate Your Success
Share your experience on social media and your company blog to inspire others. Recognize and thank your team for their efforts.
Key Takeaways
Our recent litter pick was a great opportunity for us to roll up our sleeves and make a tangible difference in our local area. We’ve seen firsthand how a little effort can go a long way in keeping our surroundings clean. However, Organizing a litter pick is not just about cleaning up; it’s about fostering a sense of pride in our local area. By coming together for a common cause, businesses can inspire their employees, strengthen community ties, and contribute positively to our environment.
We invite fellow businesses in Andover and beyond to join us in organizing their own litter picks. Together, we can amplify our impact and create cleaner, more sustainable communities for everyone to enjoy.
We help businesses meet their environmental and waste management goals through a range of solutions. From confidential waste shredding to bulk plastic recycling, we are equipped to manage a wide range of materials.
Contact us today to find a waste management solution that helps you meet your environmental goals
