This annual event, organised by the Marine Conservation Society, is about more than just picking up litter from our shores – vital data is collected, contributing to national efforts to monitor and protect marine ecosystems. Each litter survey covers a 100m stretch of beach, where every item found is recorded. Every piece of litter removed, and every survey completed, brings us one step closer to healthier oceans.

This year saw another phenomenal turnout of support! Over seven days, we hosted seven beach cleans along the Durham Heritage Coast, carried out six litter surveys, and even a nurdle hunt too! More than 100 determined volunteers joined Durham Wildlife Trust and the Heritage Coast Partnership during the Great British Beach Clean 2025, to help keep our coast clean. From local residents and community groups, to businesses and students, the week was filled with community action and a shared celebration of coastal care. Together, we collected 134 bags of litter. 

Our findings reveal that plastics continue to dominate the litter found on the Durham coast. Across all six surveys, plastic items were the most common find on every beach, making up between 56%-89% of litter recorded within the survey areas. Over time, plastic breaks down into smaller fragments known as microplastics, which pose a serious threat to the marine environment. Many marine species, including birds and fish, ingest these microplastics as they feed, and worryingly, they can also make their way up the food chain. 

Plastic bottles, drinks cans, plastic wrappers, fishing line and bottle tops were among the most common items recorded. The week also revealed some unexpected finds - an old MP3 player, a wheelchair, circuit board, lawnmower, doll’s head, Lego, and even some Monopoly houses! These finds remind us that much of the litter we see on our beaches begins its journey far inland, miles from the coast - carried through drainage systems and waterways to the sea. 

Marine pollution remains one of the biggest threats to our oceans and seas’ health. Plastic is everywhere; from larger items like plastic bottles, to tiny nurdles that often go unnoticed but are harmful to marine life. These beach cleans are part of a much bigger picture and the impact extends far beyond the coast - a powerful reminder that small actions for nature add up to meaningful change.

A HUGE thank you to everyone who took part to help keep our beaches and seas litter-free for both people and wildlife! 

You can get involved by volunteering, attending a beach clean or one of our events. All upcoming beach cleans and engagement events are listed on our website. Click the links below to find out more.

Volunteer

Upcoming Events