Runners at Laytown Beach parkrun were encouraged to give something back to the coastline on Saturday, 18th July, as Clean Coasts brought its #2MinuteBeachClean campaign to the popular weekly event.
A total of 75 people took part in the beachside parkrun, with participants also getting the chance to learn how small clean-up efforts can help protect the local shoreline.
Several lucky participants received #2MinuteBeachClean kits by being the first participants up to the stand to say: “Small Actions – Big Impact”. It was easy for them to remember as the words were written in large writing in the sand! Each kit included a foldable litter picker, making it easy to keep at hand for whenever the opportunity arises to do a quick two minute clean up.
The parkrun community understands better than most just how valuable two minutes can be. Volunteering is also something they place a high value on, meaning the message of the #2MinuteBeachClean really resonates with them.
parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate. The route for parkrun is 5km and takes place every Saturday morning. Every Sunday morning junior parkrun events take place, which is a 2km route dedicated to 4–14-year-olds and their families.
parkrun is positive, welcoming, and inclusive; there is no time limit, and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along. This inclusive and welcoming environment makes it an ideal setting to connect with participants to raise awareness about the #2MinuteBeachClean initiative. The #2MinuteBeachClean campaign aims to encourage people to take just two minutes to collect some litter while they are out and about, snap a photo, and share it on social media to show just how easy it is to make a difference.
Jenny Branigan, Territory Manager for parkrun Ireland, said: “parkrun has always been about bringing people together for the benefit of community wellbeing, and we’re proud to expand that focus to include caring for our environment. Collaborating with Clean Coasts allows us to inspire parkrunners to take simple, impactful actions to keep the environment they parkrun in free from litter. Together, we can help protect the beautiful spaces we’re so fortunate to run, walk, and volunteer in every week.
Anne Marie Kirwan, 2MinuteBeachClean Campaign Officer with Clean Coasts, said.
It was amazing to hear that the participants at Laytown Beach parkrun were so enthusiastic about the campaign. This is exactly what we hope to achieve from this collaboration. The collaboration highlights how community action can support both wellbeing and environmental protection. parkrun is a fantastic example of community spirit and positive action. The #2MinuteBeachClean Campaign is all about showing how small actions add up to big change, and we are delighted to connect with parkrunners in Waterford to spread that message.
For more information about how you can take part in parkrun visit their website, and for more information about the #2MinuteBeachClean Campaign visit the Clean Coasts website.
