Coastal Recycling unites Exeter for ‘Clean the Quay’ Campaign
Imagine ten large sacks of potatoes. Imagine how big those bags appear to be and how heavy they must feel. Or, consider carrying ten one gallon cans of paint.
The weight of 100kg is certainly a lot when you try to picture it! And yet, that’s the incredible amount of rubbish cleared in just a couple of hours during Exeter’s recent ‘Clean the Quay’ campaign.
The event was organised by Coastal Recycling. which brought together 60 volunteers, from 15 local businesses, for its first-ever ‘Clean the Quay’ event which was held on Friday 20th June.
Organisers say the event was centred on the themes of local action, collaboration and creativity. Coastal Recycling, an employee-owned business, led the initiative with support from fellow employee-owned firms Stephens Scown and Market Carpets.
‘Clean the Quay reflects who we are as an employee-owned business. We’re united by a shared purpose and committed to making a positive impact,’ said Emily Delve, Commercial Director at Coastal Recycling.
‘We’re proud to see so many local businesses, creatives, and partners come together to protect this beautiful part of our city.’
A number of other organisations took part in the event which was held on Employee Ownership Day.
Volunteers combed the Quay and surrounding areas to successfully collect waste with the aim of protecting Exeter’s natural beauty.
Image: Dirty Martini Marketing
‘Small actions, when done together, can make a big difference’
The subsequent items are being processed by the Coastal team to try to ensure a higher level of sustainability within the waste we produce.
Adding artistic flair to the day, renowned street artist Steve McCracken joined in and transformed a Coastal skip into a striking piece of artwork, which became the central hub for waste collection.
The eye-catching installation served as a powerful symbol of how creativity and environmental action can go hand in hand.
To mark the event, the clean-up concluded at Co Create Exeter which allowed volunteers to savour a well-earned cuppa and engage in a spot of networking.
Organisers say it helped to reinforce community bonds.
Coastal Recycling explains that it aims to ‘champion community-led sustainability in the Southwest, proving that small actions, when done together, can make a big difference.’
Breaktime News has previously reported on similar initiatives, including a ‘silent disco’ beach clean in North Devon.
