Urgent action needed to tackle growing litter crisis...

Urgent action needed to tackle growing litter crisis

We are writing to the Deputy First Minister today to urgently draw attention to Wales’s escalating litter problem and

to demand prompt action to protect our environment and communities from long-term harm.

Keep Wales Tidy has been monitoring the amount of rubbish in the nation since 2007. Even though there have been

advancements throughout the years, we are extremely worried that things are currently getting worse at a startling

rate.

Clean streets are crucial for fostering a sense of community and stimulating the economy, and litter is much more

than just an eyesore. It is quite difficult to reverse neglect once it has begun.

Our letter asks for Welsh Government to take several critical actions:

Commit to a national plan: We urge the Welsh Government to commit to developing and publishing this plan, ensuring that councils are equipped with the strategies they need to address these issues head-on.
Protect budgets: We understand that budgets are tight, but it is crucial that local authorities prioritize investment in street cleansing, litter prevention, public education, and enforcement.
Accelerate the deposit return scheme: We support Welsh Government’s ambition to introduce an ‘all-in’ Deposit Return Scheme by 2027, but this scheme must include glass.
Implement Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) quickly: The EPR scheme should be rolled out as soon as possible, ensuring that producers take responsibility for the environmental impact of their products throughout their lifecycle.
Explore new financial mechanisms: We should explore new funding models to support local authorities
and third-sector organizations in tackling persistent litter issues. This could include a Visitor Levy, as well as levies on single-use cups and avoidable plastics.

Welsh communities are at a turning point, and we need to act quickly and forcefully to keep them safe. The good

news is that we already have the means to change things, but in order to guarantee a cleaner, greener future for

Wales, we need the cooperation and dedication of both the national and local governments.