Posted on: Friday 27 June 2025
If you’ve spotted bright red bags next to public bins, they’re a sign litter volunteers have been working in your local area.
The environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy issues red litter bags to registered Litter Champions, community groups and Litter Picking Hubs to make it easy to dispose of them.
Volunteers leave the bags next to public bins or at pre-arranged locations and notify the team through MyTorfaen app.
In the last year, a staggering 42,821 bags of litter were collected by volunteers from across Wales, and 3,536 of these were collected across Torfaen on community litter picks. Schools and youth groups, businesses, community groups and individuals all playing a part in cleaning up their local communities.
Thom Board, Keep Wales Tidy Project Officer for Torfaen said: “I'm always thankful that we have such dedicated volunteers in Torfaen, and it’s exciting to see more red litter bags appearing – it’s clear evidence of a growing community of amazing litter picking volunteers."
“Over the summer period, we hope that everyone in Torfaen will start to understand the significance of the red bags and be inspired to get involved in caring for our beautiful area.”
Oliver James, Litter & Fly-Tipping Prevention Officer, said: “A huge thank you to all our litter-picking volunteers — your time, energy, and care, are helping keep Torfaen beautiful. Every bag of litter collected is a sign of your dedication, and we’re truly grateful.
“Torfaen volunteers collect over 8% of all litter bags in Wales which is a remarkable achievement that shows the power of council and community working together.
“If you would like to get involved in litter picking, please visit your closest Litter Picking Hub to get your hands on everything you need to get involved.”
Visit the Keep Wales Tidy website to find your nearest Litter Picking Hub or environmental community group – www.keepwalestidy.cymru.