PlasticBusters launched in December 2019 and are a volunteer-run organisation focused on protecting natural habitats from environmentally hazardous waste. They promote and organise individual and group litter-picking activities, educate the community on the issue, and collaborate with key public and private stakeholders.
PlasticBusters proactively educate their members and local communities to ensure that plastics are Refused, Reduced, Reused, Repurposed, and Recycled. They have near to 1800 supporters on social media, many of whom regularly participate in organised volunteer activities.
All materials used in the group’s activities are, where possible, sourced locally to support the economy. Volunteers are encouraged to use public transportation whenever possible. Local amenity sites are supplied with all the recyclable materials collected during events, which can then be sold to third parties and generate revenue for the local authorities. PlasticBusters reduce the clean-up costs of local authorities and public bodies due to the volunteer-ran nature of the organisation.
PlasticBusters support the Isle of Man cultural Heritage by preserving its natural ecosystems and ensuring outdoor cultural sites are free of litter.
PlasticBusters have already, in their short time in operation, carried out 18 group events and collected over 2,400 pounds of litter, despite the restrictions imposed on getting together during Covid-19. This has come from the roads, streets, glens, paths and rivers.
PlasticBusters have engaged over 200 volunteers from the Isle of Man community. They have launched global campaigns such as “March is 3-pieces-of-plastic month”, with the participation of over 350 volunteers from 27 countries. PlasticBusters have also engaged with local schools, businesses, and government representatives to participate in their clean-up activities, and engage with other groups and charities promoting the preservation of the Isle of Man environment, such as 3POP and Beach Buddies.
