Donegal community’s clever initiative to keep shore walk clean - and everyone can get involved
‘We're hopeful that, as this initiative grows and shows what our community can do, we'll be in a stronger position to make the case for bins further down the line’
The walk along the shore road between the two piers at Mountcharles is very popular with people of all ages, and a new initiative means that people walking the route can play their part in maintaining the beauty of the area.
Litter is unsightly and hazardous to the environment in any situation, but this close to the sea, it is even more important that it gets picked up as some sea creatures can mistake it for food or become entangled.
Sometimes the simplest solutions really are the most effective, and Mountcharles Tidy Towns have done just that - they have provided everything needed for people to gather litter while they enjoy this scenic walk.
A spokesperson for Mountcharles Community took to Facebook to outline the initiative.
They said: “Litter-picking installations were installed along the shore by Mountcharles Tidy Towns Committee, one at the Big Pier (across from Salthill Cabin) and one just before the Wee Pier (at the first biodiversity lectern)”.
“Here's how it works:
1. Grab a litter-picker and biobag at your pier of choice
2. Walk and collect any litter you see
3. Drop the picker at the other pier, or back where you found it
4. Take your rubbish home, or drop it at Salthill Cabin before grabbing a coffee and treat, having a brag, and basking in smugness!
“There are no public bins along the shore in Mountcharles just yet, so for now, please take any collected bits home with you, or bin it at the cabin. We're hopeful that, as this initiative grows and shows what our community can do, we'll be in a stronger position to make the case for bins further down the line.”
People of all ages can get involved.
“We've made sure there are child-sized pickers too, so this is a brilliant one for families, a lovely excuse for a walk, a bit of fresh air, and a chance to show the kids how small actions add up. Little hands, big difference,” continued the spokesperson.
“This is all about fostering pride in our coastline and making it that bit easier for everyone to play their part. “No excuses, just grab a picker on your next walk!
“Using our installations? We'd love to see it! Snap a photo and tag Mountcharles Tidy Towns and Salthill Cabin, we'll be sharing our favourites.
“A huge thank you to Salthill Cabin for partnering with us on this, to Kevin Callaghan Pottery for making our bespoke clay pots, to Donegal County Council for their support, and to An Taisce Clean Coasts and everyone who came along to our inaugural beach clean and biodiversity day on April 25.
“Here's to many more bags collected!”