Leitrim-based volunteer shortlisted for the Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Awards

Leitrim Litter Picker was nominated for the Campaigner of the Year at the Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Awards 2023. 

The Clean Coasts' Ocean Hero Awards honour the exceptional contributions made by Clean Coasts volunteers, groups, and communities in safeguarding our coast and marine life. 

Martina Healy, known on social media as Leitrim Litter Picker, was shortlisted in the Campaigner of the Year category.

Martina's nomination in this category reflects her outstanding commitment to promoting the #2MinuteBeachClean campaign through social media. 

Overcoming initial reservations, she set up an Instagram account, and in 2023, she committed to posting daily about her litter picks to demonstrate how easy it is to impact our coast and marine life positively.

 Martina commented: "Everybody has two minutes to spare, so everybody can make a difference."

Established in 2006 as the 'Clean Coasts' Merit Awards,' the accolades initially featured a single category, 'The Clean Coasts Group of the Year.' Over the years, the program has evolved, engaging over 2,000 Clean Coasts groups and 40,000 volunteers, becoming an integral part of coastal communities nationwide.

This year, the Ocean Hero Awards take on special significance as Clean Coasts marks its 20th Anniversary. 

For the past twenty years, Clean Coasts has grown from strength to strength, expanding and creating campaigns and initiatives to enjoy, protect, and celebrate the beauty of Ireland's coast. 

To view the full shortlist, please access www.cleancoasts.org.