APRIL’s National Spring Clean can be the most successful to date in Galway according to targets from the local authority.
Galway County Council and An Taisce are bidding to make this month’s National Spring Clean campaign the most successful to date by getting every parish in Co Galway involved in the annual initiative.
More than 200 local groups joined volunteers from across Ireland last year to remove 2,500 tonnes of litter from roadsides, parks and coastlines. Thirty percent of this collected waste was recycled.
Householders, schools, businesses and communities across Galway are once again being encouraged to register and take part in the 26th annual campaign.
Cllr Martina Kinane (FF), Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway said, “I very much appreciate the year-round efforts of local volunteers and groups to enhance the appearance of their local communities and for making a huge effort during National Spring Clean. We are fortunate to live in a beautiful county, so it is important that we respect it by ensuring it is litter-free for residents and visitors alike”.
Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council commented, “We are urging people who have never been involved in Spring Clean before to register their interest in taking part this year. Participation can range from one or two neighbours getting together to pick up litter in their local area to a larger team of community volunteers playing their part in keeping County Galway litter-free. Cleanup kits are available to support registered groups in County Galway”.
Kieran Coyne, Acting Director of Services for Rural & Community Development, Integration and Environment said, “National Spring Clean plays a key role in the county’s ongoing Anti-Litter Programme and Litter Management Plan, encouraging everyone to take part in the effort to keep Galway litter-free”.
He added, “Last year, 30% of all waste collected during the National Spring Clean was recycled, as the campaign continues to highlight the importance of a circular economy and waste reduction. While the campaign supports local cleanup initiatives, it also raises awareness about the impact of litter and the benefits of maintaining cleaner, healthier communities”.
National Spring Clean is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce in partnership with Local Authorities and supported by the Department of Climate, Environment and Energy and Mars Wrigley.
Registrations are being accepted on www.nationalspringclean.org and further information is available from the Environment Section of Galway County Council on 091-509510 / environment@galwaycoco.ie.
