Dog fouling threat to beaches highlighted
The annual beach litter survey by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has noted an 11% increase in incidents of dog excrement being bagged and abandoned on public beaches, with a massive increase of 71% in Scotland. The MCS survey also noted that general littering had actually declined in the same period, with a full 11% decline being recorded over a weekend in September.
Dog fouling has repeatedly been found to be a threat to public health due to the risk of exposure to high levels of bacteria, a cause of dramatic falls in water quality, and a general public nuisance. The MCS has recommended that dog owners instead follow disposal instructions and use the bins provided for such a purpose.
This is not the first call for responsibility from dog owners clearing up after their animals. British Waterways were obliged to launch a similar campaign in 2010 to prevent dog owners abandoning bagged excrement near canals.
Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.
