Businesses are being urged to join a new nationwide campaign to prevent fly-tipping and littering.
More than 15,000 tonnes of litter are discarded in Scotland each year, creating a substantial impact on the environment and costing the public purse over £50million a year, according to Zero Waste Scotland.
The campaign group is today launching a Scotland-wide initiative calling on companies and organisations to do their bit to tackle the problem in their communities.
It is urging organisations from across the public, private and third sector to develop litter prevention action plans as part of efforts to change behaviour and attitudes.
The organisation says actions could include putting posters up in windows to discourage customers from littering, storing waste correctly and making sure any outside areas are clear of litter.
Iain Gulland, chief executive of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “It is clear that litter picking and cleaning alone is not a long-term solution to Scotland’s litter issue. That’s why we need to work together to prevent litter at its source.
“We have had a fantastic response from organisations in Dundee that are passionate about protecting their communities and the environment, and I’m excited to replicate this success across the country.
“I hope as many businesses and organisations as possible will get in touch to look at putting together an action plan for your area to help prevent litter from blighting it.” The campaign is being backed by Historic Environment Scotland (HES). Mairi Davies HES’ climate change manager said: “Keeping Scotland’s historic environment litter-free is a key priority so we can help to ensure it remains somewhere that people can enjoy.”
