Litter is not just a Council problem, and we cannot succeed in preventing litter on our own. Everyone has a responsibility in the campaign for a litter-free environment, and there are a number of local community groups working hard in partnership with the Council. Working with local communities, we aim to encourage local responsibility and ownership of the litter problem, providing a sustainable, long-term solution.
A fantastic way to help your NEIGHBOURHOOD is by doing a community clean up. It's a quick way to make a very visual and physical difference to your local area. Your community will see what you are trying to do and other people may be inspired to join in. It's a fun, healthy and practical activity and anyone can get involved. Just call us now on 01324 504455 or e-mail litterzone@falkirk.gov.uk|
Litter awareness does not just stop at Litter Picks – In fact we are proud to have supported, developed and funded an array of inspirational community led projects that ARE helping to improve local community areas.
Listed below are examples of what we have been involved in.
Green Dog Walkers
A joint community-led/Council supported CAMPAIGN. It is a non-confrontational, friendly way to change attitudes about dog fouling in the Falkirk area. If you see someone wearing the Green Dog Walkers armband, it means they have "taken the Pledge" to:
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always clean up after their dog
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carry extra doggie bags
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gladly give you a bag for your dog – just ask!
This scheme is an excellent way of raising public awareness and also the first of its kind in Britain. See the Green Dog Walkers| page for more information and to sign the pledge.
Hallglen Murals and Community Wildlife Gardens
Hallglen Youth and Environment Group was formed to improve the appearance of the surrounding environment, to upgrade vandalised and littered areas and make a positive impact within their community. The group are Falkirk's first ever entrants to the Neighbourhood Awards Scheme (PDF, 1.4MB)| for the improvements they have made to their community by transforming the underpasses in Hallglen with colourful murals. Their next venture is already in progress; to create wild life gardens on orphan land with the £100 received for signing up to the Neighbourhood Awards Scheme.
Lionthorn Woodland and Dog Fouling Awareness Days
Lionthorn Woodland Association wanted our help to clean up their woodland. We have since had a number of successful clean ups and dog fouling awareness days, talking to the residents and handing out information postcards on all litter issues.
Bonnybridge Eco Day
A Bonnybridge resident has started cleaning up the area along with the Parent Council from Bonnybridge Primary School. With the help of the Litter Strategy team and local Councillor she organised a children's Eco Day, full of fun and activities all related to anti litter and environmental messages.
Allandale Residents Association
The group formed early this year with their main intention being to bring the community together and improve the appearance of their village. In July we helped organise their first ever litter pick with over 40 residence coming out to support. This is the first of many events in the pipeline, including bulb planting and Halloween lantern parade.
If you would like to read more about recent events and projects within the Falkirk area please see our WHATS NEW| page or read our NEW Community Support Pack (PDF, 583KB)| to find out how to get started in your Local environment.
Our team are here to provide all the support, encouragement and assistance you may need to start up your own projects against litter. If you would like to get involved in our campaign, in any shape or form, or would simply like more information, please contact us.