The results of the litter surveys carried out by volunteers in Suffolk during 2024, as part of the Marine Conservation Society (MCS)’s Beachwatch scheme, have been published.
Beachwatch is the Marine Conservation Society’s national beach cleaning and litter survey programme where people all over the UK can care for their coastline.
At a Beachwatch event volunteers clean and survey 100m of beach. The information is then sent to MCS who analyse the data, act against the worst marine pollution offenders and lobby for changes in legislation.
2024 saw more people participating in Beachwatch events more events taking place, and a longer length of Suffolk’s shores surveyed. Plastic and polystyrene continue to be a major problem, making up 72% of all litter found.
Not only is litter horrible to look at, it’s dangerous for people and wildlife. Animals such as whales, turtles, fish and seabirds frequently become entangled in marine litter, and many die as a result.
Locations surveyed during 2024 include Bawdsey Point, Kessingland, Shingle Street, Southwold, Trimley Shores and Thorpeness.
Key Beachwatch 2024 Facts
- 39 litter surveys were carried out
- 397 volunteers took part in Beachwatch surveys
- 191 kg litter was found and recorded
Top litter items
Most frequently found litter items based on their average per 100m value:
- Plastic/polystyrene pieces 2.5-50cm
- Packets (crisp, sweet, lolly (inc sticks), sandwich)
- Plastic caps / lids
- Cigarette stubs
- Other paper/cardboard items
- Fishing line (angling)
- Other plastic/polystyrene items
- Other wooden items (0-50cm)
Beachwatch volunteers carry out surveys throughout the year in the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape. You can find out more on the Beachwatch page of our website.