Two Defra Ministers joined 20 volunteers in a huge litter pick and beach survey in North Cornwall last week.
Water Minister Dan Rogerson visited Daymer Bay in North Cornwall on Friday, and took part in the Great British Beach Clean, organised by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS).
Marine Environment Minister George Eustice then visited on Saturday, to do his bit alongside local businesses, community leaders and holiday companies.
Beach litter is a real problem which we must all work together to tackle.
MCS data from hundreds of UK beaches shows a rise in litter over the past twenty years.
Plastic litter can have devastating effects on wildlife which can become entangled in netting, or starve when they ingest plastic and other rubbish.
Dan Rogerson said, “Beaches are a fantastic space for people to exercise, play and relax, and so keeping them clean is vital.
“I welcome the efforts of volunteers and groups like the Marine Conservation Society, who are helping to tackle the problem of litter across the coastline. It’s been fantastic to help out at Daymer Bay today.”
George Eustice said: “Our beaches are enjoyed by millions of people as well as providing a vital habitat for a wide range of wildlife, so it’s important we keep them clean and litter free.
“That’s why I’m delighted to support the Marine Conservation Society with their beach clean-up and I am looking forwarded to helping out at Porthtowan tomorrow.”
Why not take part in an MCS beach clean yourself? Further details can be found here: http://www.mcsuk.org/greatbritishbeachclean/.
