UK litter scheme a ' good idea'

Mark Trenchard says litter has an effect on the island's environment

A Guernsey group is encouraging the States to adopt a policy similar to one being planned in the UK to rid the streets of litter.

The Guernsey Litter Forum believes the UK clean-up initiative is a good idea and argues it would help deter people who habitually drop rubbish.

The scheme includes creating wardens who can issue fines for littering and a code of practice to force takeaways to accept responsibility for discarded fast food cartons.

Significant effect

Shops and business would also have to look after the pavements in front of their premises and clean up street furniture such as phone boxes and bus shelters.

The idea is to encourage individuals and businesses to take a pride in their neighbourhoods.

The Vice Chairman of the Litter Forum, Mark Trenchard, says even though only a minority of people repeatedly drop litter locally, their actions have a significant effect on the island's environment.