Local Authorities
Cleaning up litter through voluntary action is largely dependent on the practical support of Scotland’s local authorities. Councils offer a variety of different services within their own area, such as the loan of litter-picking equipment, the collection of gathered waste following a clean up, and even help to publicise clean ups or carry out risk assessments.
Included within Keep Scotland Beautiful's free Clean Up Kit is a list of the contact details and services provided by each local authority, and group organisers are encouraged to get in touch with them directly. If you are responsible for supporting clean ups in your local area, you can help by ensuring the details held and circulated by KSB are accurate and up-to-date.
You can also help by promoting National Spring Clean to your colleagues in different council departments, eg Community Learning or Liaison, Education or Schools (especially the Eco-Schools representative and Litter Education Officers), Community Wardens, and Ranger Services. Or if you can recruit schools, businesses and community groups in your area to take part yourself, so much the better.
As a thank-you for helping to promote and support the campaign, KSB awards the council with the highest percentage participation per head of population the prestigious Spring Clean Quaich. In 2009 it was won by Shetland Amenity Trust, supported by Shetland Council, for their Da Voar Redd Up, which involved nearly a quarter of the islands’ residents. Outstanding Achievement Awards also went to Perth & Kinross Council for the highest number of litter picks, and to West Lothian Council for the highest number of participants.
If you are involved in supporting community clean ups, bear in mind that demand for equipment is likely to increase substantially during the month of April, so please make allowance for that if you can. Your support is much needed and appreciated. Remember, your local authority could be in the running for the Spring Clean Quaich!