To support the initiative, Aquatic science company APEM launched a purpose-built litter boat called ‘Irwell Pride’ on the River Irwell Basin in association with Salford City Council and the Healthy Waterways Trust to clear the water and river banks of litter and debris.
According to APEM, the most common objects it finds are shopping trolleys, footballs, lorry tyres, metal fences and traffic cones, with Lucozade bottles featuring as the most littered item, while more unusual items have been collected.
APEM and Salford City Council are currently negotiating with local businesses to get their support for the project and ensure the quays in Salford are cleared.
Commenting on the project APEM managing director Dr Keith Hendry, said it will “restore the profile of some of the city’s most historical assets”, adding that “having monitored the river for 25 years, we have seen the litter problem getting steadily worse and affecting the reputation of our city, so we decided to do something about it.
“Hopefully, our work demonstrates that a constant litter-picking operation is necessary to ensure and maintain a healthy environment for people and wildlife living in close proximity to the water.”
Carys Matthews