Leitrim come together to celebrate the launch of the 25th #SpringClean24

April 2nd marks the official launch of The National Spring Clean 2024. To date, over 3,100 registrations have been made nationally.

In Leitrim, almost 40 clean-up events are registered for this spring, but registration will remain open throughout April for those still interested in participating in the campaign.

Ireland’s largest anti-litter campaign, the National Spring Clean, is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce in partnership with Local Authorities and supported by the Department of Environment, Communications and Climate Environment and Mars Wrigley Ireland.

This year marks 25 years of the campaign, which has seen the removal of an estimated 47,500 tonnes of litter from Irish streets, parks, and coastlines, thanks to over 12 million volunteer hours.

A key focus of this year’s campaign will be highlighting the impact a circular economy model can have on reducing waste and our climate impact.

Last year alone, 35% of all waste collected during the National Spring Clean was recycled, thanks to recyclable waste bags provided to registered groups and individuals.

Minister of State at the Environment, Climate and Communications, Ossian Smyth TD, said: “It is always fantastic to see the strong community spirit and ambition to make a positive contribution to the local environment, from the volunteers who participate in An Taisce’s National Spring Clean.”

National Spring Clean Manager Emlyn Cullen commented: “We’re proud to say that over the past 25 years, almost 47,500 tonnes of litter has been collected, thanks to the enormous effort of our dedicated volunteers. As we mark our 25th anniversary, we hope this year will be our biggest yet.”

To ensure that each community clean-up runs smoothly, the National Spring Clean has also provided various downloadable information packs on its website for its volunteers to read.