Youth beach clean, Portobello (Great British Beach Clean)

Katie Macfarlane

Join this beach clean to help us stop harmful litter from reaching the ocean and collect vital data that we can use to bring about positive change for our seas.

  • Beach stretch:

    Portobello Park

  • Date and time:

    27 Sep 2025, 11 a.m. to noon

  • Meeting point:

    Meet on the prom in front of the swim centre.

  • Capacity:

    40 volunteers - 35 spaces left

  • School friendly?

    No

A map showing the Portobello Park beach stretch plotted on it

This is a beach clean for young people in the Edinburgh area and beyond - all are welcome, but aim to encourage 25 year olds and under to attend! Last time saw toddlers, teens and those in their twenties all joining in (parents/guardians, of course, welcome too!). Know someone who loves helping animals or the environment? Tell them to come along with friends and family!

We will have members of our Youth Ocean Network attending. All under 16's need to have a parent/guardian with them to supervise. Age range will vary from primary to young adults+. Any questions just get in touch - katie.macfarlane@mcsuk.org 

We will carry out a marine litter survey during our beach clean, gathering vital data – you really will be contributing to our work! We hope to spend some time socialising afterwards on the beach or perhaps grabbing a cuppa nearby (remember your reusable cups if you have them!)

This event is open to individuals, friends and families. In the interest of ensuring it is accessible and inclusive to as many young people as possible, we request corporate groups do not sign up. If you are part of a group who would like to attend, please contact katie.macfarlane@mcsuk.org.

Also worth knowing…

What to bring: We’d recommend you pack a rucksack with a few essentials like sunscreen, waterproofs, hand sanitiser, and perhaps some snacks and a drink (in a reusable bottle, of course).

What to wear: If you're picking up litter with your hands it's worth wearing a strong pair of gloves - like gardening gloves - just to make sure you're protected. Sturdy shoes are a must for protection too.

Under 16s: To comply with our insurance, volunteers under 16 will need to be accompanied by an adult who will be asked to sign a parental / guardian consent form on the day by the beach clean organiser. 

35 spaces remaining - join us on the beach whilst there’s still spaces!