The volunteers have reached a milestone — collecting 3,000 bags of litter so far since they set themselves up in Barking.
They’ve now expanded their reach with ‘litter picks’ in West Ham, Poplar and Hackney to promote ‘responsibility for the environment’.
Emdad Rahman is the driving force behind the idea who’s been active in volunteering for 40 years.
“We’re not waiting for someone else to fix the problem,” he says. “The Litter League is about ownership, showing that we can do a lot if we all do a little together.”
His local movement, so far drawn mainly from the Asian community, hopes to inspire similar teams around the country in a push for eco-conscious habits in everyday life.
“We’re also clearing the mental clutter,” Emdad insists. “Working together with a purpose improves lives, not just landscapes.”
The Little Litter League encourages community street clean-ups, getting young and old to be involved in their neighbourhood and promote ‘sustainability and civic action’.
Anyone can play a part in creating more ‘liveable’ neighbourhoods, they urge. Volunteers include students, parents and workers who say they get “a deeper sense of connection and community spirit” after taking part.
