I do a litter pick-up on Longridge Fell.
Litter drives most people mad. Cans, bottles, food wrappers, dog poo bags. Unfortunately, they are everywhere these days. Our roadsides are a disgrace, and our footpaths often the same. I do a regular ‘litter pick’ on Longridge Fell, as do others, and I think it has helped. But recent episodes of irresponsible wild camping have left a lot of litter. Time to clear it; nobody else will.
This fits in perfectly with my 52 Ways to Walk – Pick Up Litter As You Walk chapter for this week.
Litter is so intrusive visually, especially in rural surroundings; not so great in towns either. It can harm wildlife and pollute our rivers. One wonders what the cost is for local authorities?
So let’s get picking. I wander through the woods; the odd can and dog poo bag are easily dealt with. 
Soon I am at one of the sites of an open fire. I collect discarded melted bottles and bits of metal barbecue mesh. Can you understand the mentality of anyone lighting fires in the middle of a forest during a heat wave? 
I have a full carrier bag, and when I reach another campfire site, I need to return the next day with a bigger bag. 
I have a very satisfied feeling for doing some good for the environment and my community. People I meet are interested and give me encouragement in the task at hand. All to the good. So, on your next walk, why don’t you do a little litter-picking? Go on, it’ll give you a boost and help the environment at the same time. It’s not so easy if you don’t go prepared. A litter grabber, gloves and bags are really needed. One tip from the book is to have two separate bags, one for recyclables and one for landfill, as you won’t feel like sorting through the mess later.
We spend a lot of time picking up litter. Sadly.
It’s got to be done. A small percentage, though probably an increasing one, of the population doesn’t care. Another example of the selfishness creeping into our culture: driving, noise, aggressive social media, etc. Grumpy old man syndrome?
Respect! Above and beyond.
So depressing to see littering like that and the realisation something vital is missing from so many people who see no problem with doing it. But on the plus side, it’s good to see your little blue car is back on the road.
The fire risk was all too obvious.
Well spotted re the car.
Well done! I often come across smaller versions of that, but what can you do when you are backpacking and already carrying a full load?
It’s so much easier to plan a litter pick beforehand and go prepared. I wouldn’t be picking up poo bags on an ordinary walk.
Maybe you could carry a small plastic bag and pick up just one small light piece of litter towards the end of the day if you know you will then be finding appropriate facilities. There is usually plenty to choose from and over a year this would add up to a substantial amount. Sorry, but you did ask!