By joining Plast Off! 2026, volunteers will help remove as much plastic litter as possible from this stretch of Anglesey coastline, playing a vital role in protecting local marine wildlife. Wales is home to a spectacular coastline, but increasing levels of plastic pollution continue to threaten the health of our seas and the animals that depend on them.

More frequent storms and extreme weather are washing ever-greater amounts of litter onto our beaches, while the rise in single-use plastics means the problem is continuing to grow. Plastic pollution poses a serious threat to marine life: seals and seabirds can become entangled in fishing line or trapped in items such as plastic rings and frisbees, while smaller fragments of plastic can enter the food chain when mistaken for food.

Plast Off! 2026 is North Wales Wildlife Trust’s annual large-scale beach clean on the west coast of Anglesey. The event will run from 10:00am to 2:00pm at Porth Tyn Tywyn, with volunteers directed to nearby beaches, coves and bays to collect as much litter as possible. The day will conclude with a ‘plastic weigh-in’ at 1:00pm, revealing just how much waste has been removed from the coastline.

This year’s event has been planned and organised with the help of North Wales Wildlife Trust’s young volunteers, who will also be on hand during the day to share their passion and knowledge of marine conservation.

Charlotte Keen, NWWT’s Youth Development Officer, said: “Plast Off! 2026 has become such a brilliant tradition to kick-start the new year surrounded by a community of people coming together to take positive action. It is such a joy to be leading this event once again. It gives our young volunteers from our Ocean Rescue Champions and Youth Forum groups the opportunity to host a public event which makes a real difference. It also helps to empower young people and shows how it is possible to harness the power of community to take action for wildlife.”

North Wales Wildlife Trust is inviting people of all ages to help make Plast Off! 2026 another successful beach clean and to play an active part in tackling plastic pollution. Full event details can be found on the Trust’s website at www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk

Did you know?

• One of our most commonly found microplastics are nurdles – tiny pre-production pellets which are usually melted down into our everyday plastic products, though many get lost at sea long before they are ever processed.
• It’s not just rope and plastic bottles which get washed up onto our beaches! From toy soldiers and children’s dolls, to an actual human wig, there’s always something a bit unusual to find!

Things to know before you go

• Bring your own gloves if you have them. We will provide plenty of litter pickers and bin bags.
• No booking is required, but booking would allow us to keep you updated on details and weigh-in results!
• Free parking at Porth Tyn Tywyn for anyone attending between 10am – 2pm. A permit will need to be collected from a NWWT staff member on the day.
• Family friendly, perfect for all ages. Well-behaved dogs are also welcome.
• Children will receive a Plast Off! certificate for completing their beach clean.
• Plast Off! 2026 is a free event, though donations are encouraged.
• Refreshments from a local vendor will be available – bring a reusable cup!