Signposting the way to litter free streets

We are always happy to hear about new initiatives to reduce littering. One idea trialled in parts of Scotland last year has been so successful that it looks likely to be rolled out in other local authorities across the country in the near future.

The Do the Right Thing campaign – the first of its kind in Scotland – created anti-litter messages on pavements around West Dunbartonshire in summer 2014 by power-washing footpaths with specially designed stencils with phrases. The messages asked people to put their litter and dog mess in nearby bins.

As part of the campaign, around 2,200 pavement adverts were placed at key locations including parks, schools and town centres. The signs were specially designed to look as if they had been placed there by local residents rather than the council. Lamppost and street signs were also erected to highlight the problems caused by littering.

The scheme was well received by local residents and Zero Waste Scotland was so impressed by its impact that they have committed £32,000 to expand and evaluate the programme.

Amberol’s MD Patience Atkinson-Gregory also approves of the scheme. “The idea of creating a series of adverts to promote the use of litter bins as if they were put up by people who live in the area is a great idea,” she comments. “We often stress the importance of raising the profile of litter bin locations and creating good signage as a way of encouraging their use. The West Dunbartonshire scheme is to be commended for showing originality in getting this message across.”

Amberol supply a range of litter bins, including recycling bins and dog waste bins. Click here to see the full range.