From Friday, 19th September to Sunday, 28th September 2025, thousands of volunteers across the UK will unite for the Great British Beach Clean, the Marine Conservation Society’s flagship citizen science event. This nationwide initiative not only removes litter from our coastlines but also gathers crucial data to inform environmental policies and protect marine ecosystems.
What is the Great British Beach Clean?
The Great British Beach Clean is an annual event organized by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) that mobilizes communities to clean up beaches and record the types of litter found. This data contributes to national and international efforts to combat marine pollution and has influenced significant policy changes, such as the plastic bag charge and the ban on microbeads in cosmetics.
When is the Great British Beach Clean?
In 2025, the event will take place from Friday, 19th September to Sunday, 28th September. During this period, coordinated beach cleans will occur across the UK, allowing volunteers to participate in local efforts to protect marine environments.
Why It Matters
Marine pollution poses a significant threat to wildlife and human health. In 2024, volunteers collected over three-quarters of a million pieces of single-use plastic waste from UK and Channel Island beaches, marking a 9.5% increase from the previous year. Common items included plastic caps, lids, and bottles, highlighting the persistent issue of plastic pollution. The data collected during the Great British Beach Clean is vital for understanding pollution sources and advocating for effective environmental policies.
How to Participate
There are several ways to get involved:
- Join an Organized Beach Clean: Find and register for a local event through the Marine Conservation Society’s website.
- Organize Your Own Beach Clean: Use MCS resources to plan and conduct a beach clean in your community.
- Record Data: During the clean-up, document the types and quantities of litter found using MCS’s Beachwatch app or data sheets.
- Spread Awareness: Share your experiences on social media using the campaign’s hashtags to inspire others to take action.
Participation is open to individuals, families, schools, and community groups. Equipment such as litter pickers and bags is often provided, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own gloves and wear appropriate clothing.
About the Marine Conservation Society
Established in 1983, the Marine Conservation Society is a UK-based charity dedicated to protecting marine environments. Through initiatives like the Great British Beach Clean, MCS engages communities in conservation efforts, conducts research, and advocates for policies that promote ocean health and sustainability.
Relevant Hashtags
- #GreatBritishBeachClean
- #BeachClean
- #MarineConservation
- #ProtectOurBeaches
- #StopOceanPlastic
Relevant Links
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