Wexford Volunteers Remove 4.1 Tonnes of Marine Litter During Big Beach Clean 2025

In a monumental effort to protect Ireland’s marine environment, 695 volunteers across Wexford helped remove an estimated 4.1 tonnes of marine litter during the Big Beach Clean 2025. Part of An Taisce’s Clean Coasts Programme, this national event engaged almost 11,000 volunteers who cleaned up 520 locations nationwide, collecting over 60 tonnes of litter—the equivalent weight of around 9 elephants!

From September 19th to 21st, volunteers across Ireland came together to remove litter from coastal and inland waterways, making a significant impact on marine pollution. Despite some groups having to postpone due to weather conditions, the majority of clean-ups took place as planned, showcasing the dedication of communities nationwide. Wexford's Clean-Up Highlights Over 40 groups in Wexford participated in the Big Beach Clean, with notable clean-ups including: Gorey Tidy Towns and volunteers from Gorey Scouts at Kiltennel Bay Beach, collecting bags of waste including glass bottles, plastic bottles, silver foil BBQs, nappies, and dog waste bags. Tomhaggard Clean Coasts at Ballyhealy Beach, which, despite moving their clean-up to a later date, managed to remove 30kg of waste from the area. The Wexford Sub Aqua Club, which conducted an underwater clean-up at Carrigfoyle Lake, recovering plastic fishing boxes, inflatable toys, and other debris. With research showing that around 80% of marine litter originates from land-based activities, this year’s Big Beach Clean also saw an increase in inland counties taking action. Volunteers from counties far from the coast joined the effort to prevent litter from entering the sea, with over half of non-coastal counties registering more volunteers than in 2024. The Big Beach Clean has demonstrated the incredible power of community action. Wexford's volunteers have shown that through collective effort, it’s possible to make a meaningful impact on our environment. To continue supporting Clean Coasts initiatives and protecting our marine life, consider getting involved in future clean-ups or joining a local Clean Coasts group. For more information, visit Clean Coasts.