PlasticBusters, an environmental project aiming to reduce plastic and litter pollution in the environment, has launched a new ’adopt a place’ initiative.

This involves inviting the public to look after an area that is local or special to them, and to keep it litter-free.

Founder Jaime Amoedo explains how people can get involved:

’Whether you are an individual, a family or an organisation, PlasticBusters would like to invite you to do your bit for the environment by joining an initiative to adopt a place of your choice and pledge to do your best to keep it litter-free of items that could harm our habitat.

’It could be the street where you live, or part of it, your favourite park or glen, the beach where you take your dog for a walk, the path where you run in the evening, or a combination of these. It’s entirely up to you.

’Anyone committed to actively tackling litter can take part and volunteer to get involved and care for our unique UNESCO Biosphere nation - and encourage a sense of civic pride too, as volunteering for this initiative will help to complement and enhance the cleansing and grounds maintenance work of our local authorities.

’All it requires is for you to keep an eye on your adopted place, collect from time to time (at least once a month) the litter you may find, and appropriately separate and dispose of what you collect.

’As the pandemic continues to strike nearly every corner of the world, limiting the possibility of participating in group clean-up activities, this is a great opportunity to support the environment on an individual basis - an easy activity you, your kids or colleagues can do when going out for your allowed local daily exercise.’

Since the initiative was launched, more than 100 places have been adopted - for example Port Soderick Glen, Fleshwick Bay and Pinfold Lane in Laxey.

People can visit www.plasticbusters.org to sign up and receive a personalised certificate.