Crosshaven & Kinsale Communities Recognised for Tackling Litter

 Communities and volunteers from across Cork County took centre stage in Cork County Hall on Monday, 28^th September for the Anti-Litter Challenge awards. This annual competition, organised by Cork County Council since the mid-1990s, encourages towns and villages to reduce litter in their communities.

The unique initiative sees neighbouring towns and villages compete to achieve the highest scores in terms of litter prevention. Tidy Towns groups, Community Councils and Residents Associations join the challenge every year, and in 2026 a total of 64 villages and 19 towns took part. The friendly rivalry that characterises the Anti-Litter Challenge is the hallmark of the competition and brings out the best in all participants.

Picture: Darragh Kane

Judges visited each location over a six-week period in early summer and scored each town and village based on the absence of litter. Scores are tallied at the end of judging to give an overall ranking. One noticeable trend has been the higher scores in successive years, meaning that standards are improving year on year. Mayor of Cork County, Cllr. Bernard Moynihan said, “It is important and appropriate that we bring communities together to recognise the work they do in tackling litter.

The positive energy and enthusiasm shown by local groups is inspiring, and the Anti-Litter Challenge epitomises the very best of community spirit. The real success of this competition is that our towns and villages are cleaner as a result and this delivers environmental, social and economic benefits for everyone.” Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell added, “The Anti-Litter Challenge is built on a strong partnership between Cork County Council and local communities.

I would like to thank all of the groups involved for their hard work and dedication, which is matched by organisational and financial support provided by Cork County Council. Tonight is about shining a spotlight on the great work that takes place week in, week out to keep our communities clean.”