HELP KEEP WEST MIDLANDS CANALS PLASTIC-FREE THIS HALLOWE’EN HALF TERM
This Hallowe’en half term, the Canal & River Trust is encouraging families in the West Midlands to join its #PlasticsChallenge and take action on their local canal to fight the global issue of plastic pollution.
Autumn is a perfect time to visit, with trees and hedges turning the local canals into spectacular corridors of red and gold. By donning optional fancy dress and picking up some plastic, those taking part can get a feel-good boost from being close to nature while taking action to protect it this Hallowe’en half term.
As the charity that looks after 520 miles of canals and rivers across the West Midlands area, the Canal & River Trust knows how important water is to the nation’s health, as well as to the many species of wonderful wildlife who make their homes on the waterways. But, every year, millions of pieces of plastic end up in and around canals. Plastic rubbish damages vital waterside habitats, impacts water quality, endangers species such as aquatic birds, water voles and otters, and ultimately can end up flowing out into the oceans.
Joining the Canal & River Trust’s #PlasticsChallenge and doing a daytime litter pick in fancy dress at a local canal is an awesome way to spend time outdoors with family and friends and help to protect the world’s oceans by making a positive change in the local area. Fancy dress is entirely optional!
- Visit your local canal, during daylight, in your best Hallowe’en costume and carefully collect any plastic you see
- Dispose of it safely and sustainably by taking it home to recycle
- Spread the word! Take pictures of your pick and use #PlasticsChallenge on social media to encourage others to get involved
The UK’s canals and rivers are full of wonderful spots to enjoy the changing season and take some great photos. Every stretch of waterway has its charms, and the Trust is encouraging people to explore and find their own special place on their doorsteps.
Henriette Breukelaar, regional director of West Midlands at the Canal & River Trust, said: “Plastic pollution is a modern-day menace, but there is something families can do for free, on their doorsteps, to make a difference. This autumn, join thousands of people from across the world, including our fantastic colleagues and volunteers, in fighting plastic rubbish. It’s one of the loveliest times of year to visit the West Midlands canals, as the turning leaves transform them into glorious corridors of orange, brown, red and gold. But sometimes the rustle of fallen leaves is actually the sound of a discarded crisp packet or a piece of plastic. Don’t let plastic become part of our nature.
“Hallowe’en is a great time to get involved – come along for a walk in fancy dress if you wish, and if you find any litter, pick it up and take it home to recycle. Get creative and find a picturesque backdrop to showcase your action and share the results with us! Being by the water makes people healthier and happier so, whatever you choose to do, a trip to your local canal is the perfect way to enjoy an autumnal afternoon and to celebrate Hallowe’en by giving back to nature.”
For more information about #PlasticsChallenge, visit: Join our Plastics Challenge | Canal & River Trust (canalrivertrust.org.uk)
