Groups across Laois collect tonnes of waste during National Spring Clean

Laois communities came together to make a difference for the environment by removing nearly five tonnes of litter during National Spring Clean in April.

This year over 50 Laois groups registered to carry out clean-ups throughout the county making Spring Clean 23 one of Ireland’s largest anti-litter campaigns to date.

Almost 900 volunteers joined Spring Clean 23 in Laois removing approximately five tonnes of litter. The event has been a starting point for a large number of groups to organise regular clean-up events all year long.

Clean-ups took place across Laois including in Portlaoise, Clough and Killeen this April. 

Picture above: Clough Tidy Towns

National Spring Clean 2023 has been an amazing opportunity for communities to come together and do their bit for their local environment, contribute to creating a more sustainable community and be with like-minded people and make a difference.  

This year’s event also aimed to raise awareness about how the adoption of a circular economy model will reduce litter, and climate impact.

The principles of a circular economy have always been central to the ethos of National Spring Clean. This year, some 35% of all waste collected was recycled, thanks to recyclable waste bags provided to groups and individuals who register, while the removal of litter from the natural environment has helped tackle biodiversity loss.  

Pictured Above: Killeen Community Group

National Spring Clean is operated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce in partnership with Local Authorities and supported by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment and Mars Wrigley Ireland.  

Ireland’s official anti-litter campaign has been highlighting the collective responsibility communities share in tackling and preventing litter for 24 years.  

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan vowed continued support for the initiative:  

“An Taisce’s National Spring Clean continues to showcase the dedication of volunteers all over the country. The commitment of volunteers in continuing to organise local clean-ups each year is a testament to the spirit in Irish communities and I would urge as many people as possible to get involved in the campaign.

 My Department will continue to support the campaign and An Taisce, whose role in organising this successful campaign each year, deserves to be acknowledged. I look forward to the many events that will be held all over the country in the coming months,” he said. 

Pictured above: Portlaoise Community Enhancement Committee members

National Spring Clean, Manager, Emlyn Cullen, was delighted with the turnout.   

“This was one of our biggest years ever with regards people taking part. We can’t thank the volunteers enough for giving up their time and energy to make Ireland a cleaner, greener country this April,” she said. 

“Huge credit also goes to the Local Authorities who work hard during the month to collect the full bags after events. Also I’d like to thank our funders, the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications and sponsors, Mars Wrigley Ireland,” she added.