We joined the Canal and River Trust using their rafted canoes to paddle around the River Lea and pick up litter.
Students and staff went litter picking in Hackney by paddling through the river and collecting rubbish. We helped to clear the waterways of small and large items, stopping them from having an impact on the local wildlife.
The canoes were rafted together for stability and volunteers were given nets and litter pickers to grab items and bring them into the canoes as they paddled past. Several bags of rubbish were filled in the two days of volunteering with a visible difference in the cleanliness of the water.
The litter was then safely disposed of, ensuring they would no longer be breaking down into microplastics in the River Lea or be incorporated into nests for wildlife. Having secure lids on outdoor bins is important, otherwise rubbish is likely to blow away in the wind and possibly end up in the canals. If you notice outdoor bins that aren't successfully holding rubbish you can notify your local council.
Keep an eye on this page (or the Students Union Volunteering page for students) to get involved with future opportunities. You can also see volunteering available on the Canal and River Trust website here.