This summer, we want you to take part in our Leave No Footprints campaign in partnership with Plymouth Gin and TV Adventurer Ben Fogle. We are encouraging Brits to hit the beach, but to leave nothing but footprints behind when they head for home.

Beaches in the UK are expected to face 50% more visitors this ‘Staycation Summer’ as Brits look to swap overseas trips for holidays a little closer to home. Of course we love visiting the beach, dipping a toe in the sea and enjoying sandy sandwich or two, but we’re working in partnership with Plymouth Gin and Ben Fogle to encourage everyone to do their bit to look after the coast whilst visiting, and driving awareness of the importance of a healthy Ocean.

According to our new research, it’s clear that Britain’s beaches have a special place in our hearts and minds – 3 in 4 say the beach makes them happy and an astounding 95% have happy memories linked to the seaside. In fact, Brits believe that views of the seaside make them happier than any other view in the UK! With seven months being the average length of time since Brits last saw the sea, and 71% of us set to visit the coast this summer, it’s more important than ever to keep our beaches clean. 

So, if you’re thinking of hitting the beach this summer then take a look at a few simple yet effective ways we can all do to preserve our coastline, with advice including:

By taking part in these simple actions, you could have a hugely positive impact on the Ocean!

Your efforts will reduce pressure on beaches by disposing or recycling waste correctly before you even reach the beach and removing harmful litter items from entering the Ocean.

The Plymouth Distillery team has also committed to a year-long programme of beach cleans kicking-off this summer.  Plymouth Gin has already made great strides in its sustainability journey;  the distillery uses 100% renewable electricity and all of its gin botanicals are recycled via an anaerobic digestion power plant, to turn waste into energy.  

OCT volunteers cleaning beaches in Plymouth

OCT hopes you will take part in this campaign and help us keep UK beaches clean!