Business Clean-up blitz at Bilton Bay, Glenorchy

Southern Tasmanian businesses joined forces today with state and local government employees in a crack-down on litter around the River Derwent.

A team of volunteers organised by the Derwent Estuary Program (DEP) rolled up their sleeves to tidy the Bilton Bay foreshore area in Glenorchy, in support of the 2017 Clean-up Australia Business Day campaign.

Director of the DEP, Christine Coughanowr said Bilton Bay has been identified as a litter hotspot in recent surveys.

“Thousands of items of litter have accumulated along the high tide line at this location,” Ms Coughanowr said.

“This is due to the urban nature of the catchment and the shape of the bay, which traps rubbish along the shoreline.”

“Today’s clean-up took place on the low-tide in the afternoon, with employees from the DEP, EPA Tasmania, Nyrstar and Glenorchy City Council taking part.”

Director of the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), Wes Ford said in excess of 50 tonnes of litter reach the Derwent estuary every year via stormwater which can harm wildlife and affect human health.

“Preventing litter is the preferred option – with clean-up events the last resort – but we hope today’s efforts inspire others to become involved in the annual Clean Up Australia Day Campaign.” Mr Ford said.

Business Clean-up Day is on Tuesday 28 February, Schools Clean up Day is on Friday 3 March and Community Clean up Day is on Sunday 5 March.

If you would like to join in, check out the Clean-up Australia Day website www.cleanup.org.au to find a registered site in your neighbourhood.

See someone littering? Report them to the EPA via the Litter Hotline at www.epa.tas.gov.au
Sarah Graham, EPA Communications Coordinator