The Scottish SPCA is encouraging people to support the Paws on Plastic initiative throughout May which asks dog owners to pick up at least two pieces of litter when walking their dogs.
We saw an increase of 17% in calls about litter from 1 January to 31 March 2021 compared to the previous year. 118 jobs have been raised involving animals and discarded rubbish this year which is up from the same period in 2020 when there were 99. In addition, environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful has recently warned of a looming litter emergency with data showing an 111% increase in significantly littered sites since 2007.
Paws on Plastic was started by environmental enthusiast Marion Montgomery who began the non-profit enterprise from her home as a way to combat the harmful effects of litter and in particular, plastic.
We are asking people to take part over the month of May and over the Keep Scotland Beautiful Summer Clean which runs from 28 May until 20 June.
Chief superintendent Mike Flynn said, “We get countless reports every year of animals ingesting or becoming trapped or caught in litter or discarded fishing wire. Some litter is a choking hazard or can cause damage and restrict an animal’s ability to eat which can lead to starvation. Animals can also ingest rubbish which can be fatal. We issue guidance and advice to the public asking them to be responsible around wild animals through our #WildlifeWise programme. The Paws on Plastic project is a fantastic extension of this and highlights the dangers litter can pose. We fully support Paws on Plastic and encourage people to take part. The positive effect it will have for wildlife and local communities will be tremendous.”
Marion Montgomery has grown the Paws on Plastic community to over 20,000 members worldwide.
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Posted On: 29/04/2021