According to new research, more than 50% of Brits are seriously concerned about the amount of rubbish and litter in their area, with a third claiming it’s the worst it has ever been.

The nationwide study, commissioned by Pilgrims Choice, found that almost four in five Britons regularly see other people leaving rubbish behind 74% of people polled say that they can’t bear to watch litter being dropped.

Three-quarters of Brits have also witnessed people leaving empty cans and bottles in the park, while almost two-thirds (65%) have seen people throwing rubbish out of their car windows.

Takeaway wrappers scattered around park benches, the wrong bin being used for rubbish disposal, overflowing bins with rubbish strewn around them, and recyclable items thrown away are the most common sights, according to the study.

In order to tackle this issue, Pilgrim’s Choice is embarking on a nationwide road show in August and September to share plastic reduction tips, which helped them reduce plastic packaging by 40 per cent, while also organising litter picks in cities all over the UK.

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Almost seven in 10 people think that looking after our environment needs to be a collective effort, and if everyone does their bit to reduce litter, plastic packaging and rubbish, it can make a big difference.

Lucy Hay, Senior Brand Manager at Pilgrims Choice comments: “Like many others who are looking to reduce their plastic and excess packaging, we recognise that when we all make even small changes, it can add up to make a big difference; that’s why we’ve introduced our 40 percent reduced plastic Megablock.

“We’re excited to set out on our roadshow across the country this month and next, doing our bit to help tackle rising litter in public places and sharing tips and advice to reduce plastic consumption going forward.”

Have you noticed an increase in litter in your area? Have you spoken to the council about it? Has anything been done to tackle it? Let us know in the comments below.