Volunteers Remove 60kg of Waste from Southbourne Beach
- Volunteers from two companies gathered 60kg of trash, including bottles and cans, from Bournemouth beach.
- The clean-up effort highlights environmental awareness and community responsibility.
- Such initiatives encourage ongoing participation in local conservation efforts.
In a significant community effort, volunteers from waste management company Biffa and restaurant chain Mitchells & Butlers successfully removed over 60kg of litter from Southbourne beach in Bournemouth, Dorset, on July 17. The clean-up event was part of the global initiative Plastic Free July, aimed at raising awareness about plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices. The litter collected during the event included a variety of items such as bottles, cans, discarded clothing, and hazardous marine debris like fishing wire. Organised by Biffa’s Poole depot staff and members of Mitchells & Butlers' kitchen development team, the initiative highlights the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation. Biffa reported that recyclable materials, including plastic and glass bottles, were reintegrated into the circular economy for transformation into new products. Meanwhile, non-recyclable waste was directed to an energy-from-waste facility, where it will be converted into electricity, showcasing a commitment to sustainable waste management practices. Mark Chapman, Biffa’s head of corporate accounts, expressed pride in supporting local sustainability projects and emphasized the importance of protecting the coastline for public enjoyment. David Gallacher, divisional director at Mitchells & Butlers, described the partnership as a "ground-breaking approach to waste management," underscoring the collaborative effort to enhance environmental stewardship in the region.