Join over 120 volunteers in Mayo for Big Beach Clean

MORE than 120 volunteers in County Mayo are already registered and set to join Clean Coasts for the Big Beach Clean this September 19 to 21.

Supported by Kia Ireland, the Big Beach Clean is an annual call-to-action as part of the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC), a global initiative led by Ocean Conservancy to mark the end of the bathing season. This nationwide event invites individuals, families and communities to come together, clean their local coastline or waterways, and contribute to a global citizen science effort.

With the deadline for registering fast approaching, this is a final reminder to volunteers to sign up before September 7 to avail of free a clean-up kit (while stocks last) and make a positive impact on the Irish coast and waterways.

For more information or to sign up, visit cleancoasts.org.

Last year, 2.7 tonnes of litter was removed by over 450 volunteers in Mayo as part of the Big Beach Clean.

Clean-ups will be happening in various locations across the county. A list of clean-ups happening in Mayo can be found on the Clean Coasts website.

Upon signing up, participants receive all materials needed to run their beach clean and to record litter data using the Clean Coasts Marine Litter Data Cards or the Clean Swell App, which in turn helps contribute to global marine litter research.

By taking part and submitting litter data, volunteers contribute to a global initiative tackling marine pollution led by Ocean Conservancy. This data helps shape international policies tackling ocean pollution and has already led to bans on items like plastic bags and straws worldwide. Closer to home, insights gathered through previous Big Beach Cleans have informed key Clean Coasts campaigns such as Bin the Butt and Break Up With Plastic.

In Ireland, the latest survey by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) revealed a 50% increase in the number of beaches and inland waterways achieving a ‘clean’ rating. The report credits this significant improvement to the dedicated work of Clean Coasts groups and local volunteers.

The 2025 survey also identified cigarette butts, sweet wrappers and fast food packaging as the most frequently encountered litter items across surveyed areas.

Registrations will close at midnight on September 7. For more information and to register, visit cleancoasts.org.