Beaches clean up their act from recent data

CLEAN: Beaches such as Ayr has seen a decrease in littering in 2025 (Image: Geograph)

Data experts have warned of ongoing issues with sewage pollution on Scotland’s coastlines, but Ayrshire is showing a “sharp” drop in beach litter.

A report by Marine Conservation Trust’s showed South Ayrshire beaches to be among the cleanest in 2025 for decreasing litter levels, in what was the region’s “best year”.

The data from Beachwatch Data Explorer, based on surveys carried out by volunteers, recorded an average of 116 items per 100 metres of coastline, which is below the Scottish average 157.

Reading at a 56 per cent decrease from the previous year’s numbers, 171 volunteers compiled the data as a result of local cleans at the likes of Troon, Ayr, and Girvan beach.

164 kilograms of litter were picked up along the coastline by volunteers, who managed to make up 38 bags in total across the board.

South Ayrshire Council has made it clear they will continue to clean up along the coastline, in what they label as “the places they love”.

A council spokesperson said: “We’re proud to support the Keep Scotland Beautiful #SpringCleanScotland2026 campaign – helping keep South Ayrshire clean, green and litter free.

“Whether it’s your street, local park, or favourite beach, every small action makes a big difference. We want South Ayrshire to be a brighter, cleaner place for everyone – including our wildlife.”

Despite having a smaller coastline, North Ayrshire showed 93 items per 1oo metres collected which is also a decrease from the national average, and the region’s best in 10 years.

The likes of Burntisland Beach in Fife and Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris were among other locations of high cleanliness from the MCS report.