Become a citizen scientist and help to battle New Zealand’s upstream litter problem.
Upstream Battle from Keep New Zealand Beautiful
Did you know that most marine litter isn’t a result of human activity out at sea? 80% of marine litter globally starts its journey upstream, from land, meaning we all have a part to play in reducing it!
Despite this huge quantity, there’s very little data on where exactly this litter comes from, or what type of litter is making its way into the ocean through our waterways. Nonetheless, once it reaches the ocean it’s nearly impossible to remove, and the consequences for marine ecosystems, climate change and our own health is huge.
Since ocean conservancy begins with a better understanding of the root causes of ocean pollution, Keep New Zealand Beautiful is proud to launch a new citizen science programme Upstream Battle. With your help, we’ll develop a comprehensive insight into Aotearoa’s litter problem from source to sea.
How will Upstream Battle work?
The programme aims to identify the most common on-land sources and types of litter, utilising volunteers, students, teachers and other citizen scientists of all ages to gather valuable data that in turn will inform action to stop this litter from entering our streams, rivers, lakes and oceans.
Help us battle New Zealand’s upstream litter problem!
To get an accurate record from around Aotearoa, we need Upstream Battlers from across the country to collect data and litter from local waterways. We’ll provide you with the resources to gather the data – we just need your help to get this out there!
The programme is aimed at schools, community groups, families and volunteers throughout New Zealand who would like to contribute to the solution. It’s a great opportunity to gain training and experience in citizen science, and the programme links to a diverse range of learning areas in the New Zealand curriculum and United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Sign up to help here.
Contribute to worldwide research
Upstream Battle is based on a similar citizen scientist programme conducted in Scotland, on the rivers Clyde and Tay. We recently partnered with Keep Scotland Beautiful to share knowledge and programmes for the benefit of the communities on both sides of the globe.
Contact us
If you have enquiries about Upstream Battle, we’d love to hear from you. Email us or give us a call on 0800 TIDY KIWI and we’ll be able to help.
Text and image credit: Keep New Zealand Beautiful
