Don’t Just Take Your Litter Home—Take Someone Else’s Too!

“Why should I?” might be your first response, and we understand that. We have a great answer though. You will make the world a better place (and, selfishly, make you feel better!) Read on.

Northern Ireland boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe – beautiful forests, dramatic coastlines, and tranquil countryside trails that offer peace and adventure in equal measure. And yet, the simplest of things has the potential to ruin it. Litter. The beauty of our outdoor trails and places often can be totally destroyed because people don’t bring their rubbsih home with them.

When litter is left behind, whether intentionally or unintentionally, it does far more damage than simply spoiling the view. Plastic packaging can trap and harm wildlife, discarded food waste attracts pests and disturbs local ecosystems, and broken glass can injure both wildlife and visitors alike.

Dog poo bags are dangerous for children, even when left on trees (which has it’s own plastic related harm).

Beyond the immediate damage, litter sends a message of disregard for our shared natural heritage, implying that these precious environments aren’t valued.

As a society, the consequences of neglecting our collective responsibility are serious. Once vibrant areas become degraded, wildlife suffers, and eventually, these places become less inviting, diminishing community pride and impacting on local tourism.

Thankfully, the solution is simple: take your litter home. And, we’ll go one step further. Take someone else’s litter home too.

We can all do more. The types of people who don’t take their rubbish home aren’t going to go away or, change their habits en masse. The silent majority however, can.

Imagine if each person committed not only to managing their own litter but also to picking up just a few extra pieces left behind by others. This small act of care has immense power. It encourages others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that strengthens community spirit and demonstrates active stewardship of the outdoors.

Through OutmoreNI’s ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign, we aspire to cultivate this culture of care and responsibility. The message is clear. Northern Ireland’s outdoors belongs to all of us, and its protection starts with the simple yet powerful act of leaving no trace. The next time you step outdoors, remember: taking your litter home and picking up even a little extra is not just a courtesy, it’s an investment in our shared future.