If you’ve noticed bright red bags next to public bins in Torfaen, it’s a sign that local volunteer litter pickers have been hard at work cleaning up the area.
These red bags are handed out by environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy to registered volunteers, community groups, and local litter-picking hubs. Once filled, the bags are left next to public bins or at designated spots and collected after volunteers report them via the MyTorfaen app.
Over the past year, volunteers across Wales collected an impressive 42,821 bags of litter. Of those, 3,536 were gathered in Torfaen by community litter pickers, including schools, youth groups, businesses, and individual residents.
‘Dedicated volunteers’
Thom Board, Keep Wales Tidy Project Officer for Torfaen, said: “I’m always thankful that we have such dedicated volunteers in Torfaen, and it’s exciting to see more red litter bags appearing – it’s clear evidence of a growing community of amazing litter picking volunteers.”
“Over the summer period, we hope that everyone in Torfaen will start to understand the significance of the red bags and be inspired to get involved in caring for our beautiful area.”
Oliver James, litter & fly-tipping prevention officer, said: “A huge thank you to all our litter-picking volunteers — your time, energy, and care, are helping keep Torfaen beautiful. Every bag of litter collected is a sign of your dedication, and we’re truly grateful.
“Torfaen volunteers collect over 8% of all litter bags in Wales which is a remarkable achievement that shows the power of council and community working together.
“If you would like to get involved in litter picking, please visit your closest Litter Picking Hub to get your hands on everything you need to get involved.”