Local communities encouraged to take part in the Big Donegal Clean Up 2026

Donegal County Council is calling on communities across the county to get involved in the Big Donegal Clean Up 2026, a countywide initiative that brings together community groups, schools, businesses and voluntary organisations to tackle litter and protect local environments.

The campaign, which forms part of the Council’s wider environmental awareness and climate action programme, encourages communities to take action to make a visible, positive difference in their local areas.

Each year, the campaign sees strong participation from Tidy Towns groups, community organisations, schools and volunteers, demonstrating the collective impact that local action can achieve.

Communities are encouraged to organise their own clean up events throughout the month of April and to work together to help keep Donegal clean, safe and welcoming for residents and visitors alike.

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Paul Canning highlights the vital role played by volunteers and community groups in caring for their local areas.

“The Big Donegal Clean Up is a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared purpose. Year after year, we see the pride and commitment of people right across Donegal who give their time to improve their local environment.”

“I would encourage every community group, school and organisation to get involved and play their part in keeping Donegal clean and welcoming for all,” Cllr Canning added.

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Michael McGarvey, Director of Service, emphasised the importance of the initiative and its continued success and acknowledged the great work of over 5,700 volunteers taking part in over 800 clean ups countywide last year.

“The Big Donegal Clean Up continues to be a cornerstone of community led environmental action in the county. Since 2015, this campaign has been a great success, reinforcing the shared responsibility we all have in preventing litter and protecting our natural surroundings.”

Donegal County Council supports local clean ups by providing communities with the resources they need and by facilitating the collection of waste for registered events. Community groups planning a clean up are encouraged to complete the Council application form to avail of additional local authority support, including equipment such as litter pickers, gloves and bags and to also register with the National Spring Clean to access resources and supports.

Further information on how to get involved is available at www.donegalcoco.ie