In August, our SCCU team returned to the stunning shores of Skye, but this time, we ventured to a new stretch of coastline. We were thrilled to join forces with Skye Beach Cleans and local community members to tackle three distinct areas of coastline.
Over the course of two days, we estimated that we picked up around 3 tonnes of plastic pollution from two beaches and a woodland area. Yes, you read that right! Thanks to a tip from Our Life on Skye ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcvyIe54AMQ ), we discovered an unusual spot for beach cleaning—a wooded area at the end of a loch that was choked with plastic washed in by high tides and strong winds. It was surreal to be picking up items you’d typically find on a beach, nestled among the trees.
Amidst the spruce trees, we found roots entangled with a mass of rope and plastic debris that had been woven into the forest over time. This stark reality was a sobering reminder of how deeply plastic pollution affects our environment.
Unfortunately, with unsettled weather and predicted high winds, we made the tough but responsible decision to leave our boat behind. But thanks to the support from the local team at MOWI, we arranged for them to collect the gathered rubbish once the weather cleared.
One of the highlights of the weekend was meeting and chatting with local residents and also other seasoned beach cleaners who were volunteering over the weekend. We shared insightful conversations about the ongoing challenges of plastic pollution across Scotland with passionate folks like Violet @sustainably.spectrum, Vicki from @scottishislandsfed, Ally from @ocean.plastic.pots, @katy_climatehub, and Emma from @seabirdcentre. Together, we strengthened both our knowledge and shared our commitment to making a difference.
We were also fortunate to have the media team from www.caledonianhorticulture.co.uk join us, who were filming for a documentary on beach cleaning. Their presence added an exciting layer to our efforts, highlighting the importance of community action in the fight against plastic pollution.
Thank you to everyone who joined us this weekend. Your hard work and dedication are what make these efforts truly impactful!
I’m so pleased to have found your organisation and relieved to find I’m not on my own picking up rubbish on Skye’s beaches (though on a much smaller scale!)
And also really pleased to see that you will be going to Loch Bracadale where I have been visiting for 55 years. There’s a beach that I feel unable to tackle so I wanted to draw your attention to it. I’d love to help you if it goes on your list!
///elite.operation.hourglass
Best wishes
Sophie
(Ullinish)
Thank you for reaching out Sophie, you’ll be pleased to know that that beach has been cleared recently and its on the rador for monitoring and being part of clean ups. We are there with Skye Beach cleans and other organisations next weekend (9/10 May 2025) if you’re able to come along.