Salford Litter Heroes, an environmental conservation organisation, are demonstrating that they are a force for change by volunteering their spare time into keeping Salford’s streets clean.
Nomad Coffee Company, a mobile coffee shop in Worsley, have joined the Salford Litter Heroes initiative, asking for volunteers to take part in a socially distanced litter pick around the Worsely area, in return for a hot beverage.
Cat Rainey, the owner of Nomad Coffee Company, said: “As a small business, it’s important for us to give back to the local community and providing an incentive for residents to come out and help has made all of the difference – It’s a community effort.
“All of the equipment is provided by us. All you need to do is collect it from outside the truck and then return it when you are finished picking. The bags we provide are supplied by Salford Council and can be left next to any council bin for collection.
“Some people have blamed us for the litter in the area and we want it to be made known that the litter is not a result of our business. We are committed to volunteering our time and effort to help keep Worsley clean and are rewarding residents who choose to join the cause.
“In just over an hour of picking, twelve bags were handed in, which just shows what we are up against.”
Cat continued: “I think it’s a great learning experience, not just for children, but for adults too. It opens our eyes to the effect that littering and fly-tipping has on the environment and local wildlife.
“It’s also a great opportunity for families to get their daily exercise and also help clean up the environment while they’re doing it.”
Zak Damelio, studying Geography at the University of Salford, is a member of Salford Litter Heroes and dedicates his free time to helping to pick up litter around the Chapel Street area.
Zak said: “It’s important, going forward, that in a global climate crisis, we actively start to think about the waste we are creating.
“Being part of a community and seeing people care about it is really motivating. I want to encourage more people to get out onto the streets and start litter picking.
“I think we have collected over 102 bags in the group in just the last 2 weeks.”
Zak has been inspired to set up his own litter picking group, Salford City on Point, for people in the Chapel Street area who want to get involved in weekly litter picks.
Interview with Zak Damelio about why he joined Salford Litter Heroes and what it means to him:
Bar chart showing the most common types of litter found according to KeepBritainTidy.org:
For more information on how you can make a difference go to KeepBritainTidy or visit Salford Litter Heroes’ Facebook page.
You can also register with Salford Council to become a Salford Street Champion in your area. More information on this can be found on the Salford City Council’s website.
2 Comments