The Big Paddle Cleanup returns for 2025!

The Big Paddle Cleanup is Paddle UK's annual environmental campaign.

In 2024, 3,699 volunteers collected 1,888 sacks of plastic waste and other junk from the UK's precious waterways.

The Big Paddle Cleanup will return from 24 May – 8 June 2025.

Paddlers are in a unique position to collect litter from places others are unable to access.

The publics efforts help raise more public awareness about plastic pollution and the damage caused to the UK's blue spaces.

By taking part in the Big Paddle Cleanup:

• You help protect wildlife
• You help minimise pollution
• You will feel closer to nature
• You feel happier knowing you're making a difference

More information about how to get involved in the 2025 campaign is coming soon.

In 2024, during the two weeks of action, about 7,398 hours were spent out on our precious waterways, filling 1,888 sacks with rubbish.

Within those sacks, were 7,809 plastic bottles, 2,374 glass bottles, 4,735 cans and 10,613 plastic food wrappers, plus many unusual items.

The Big Paddle Cleanup has a positive impact on the community. You have told us how much cleaning your waterways means to you.

Amy Cipriano, from the Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre Wild Women Outdoor Club, said:

"The majority of our paddlers have become passionate about [The Big Paddle Cleanup] and make conscious efforts to keep our waterways clean and tidy.

"The ladies often go off by themselves and litter pick the river banks or join scheduled canoe litter picks."

Source and image: Paddle UK