First seabins installed in Mid and East Antrim

The first seabins have been installed in Mid and East Antrim at Carrickfergus Marina and Glenarm Marina.

This is the first of a number of seabins to be positioned along the borough’s coastline following a motion which was unanimously supported by councillors.

Each bin can hold up to 12kg at full capacity, collecting the equivalent of 20,000 bottles or 83,000 bags per year.

At the monthly meeting in February, Councillor Angela Smyth proposed the motion and it was seconded by Councillor Cheryl Johnston.

Councillor Smyth, said: “I am absolutely delighted that my proposal to install new seabins within the borough was passed unanimously and that council has now agreed to a positive measure to protect our historic coastlines.

“For those who are unfamiliar with seabins, they are a floating natural fibre rubbish bin that moves up and down according to the tide and can collect up to half a tonne of rubbish and debris each year. This is equivalent to 20,000 plastic bottles or 83,000 plastic bags per year.”

“As councillors, I believe it is our duty to protect our world renowned coastlines and our famous beaches, which are the envy of the world.

Councillor Smyth, added: “I am glad that council have seen the benefit that these bins will provide, not just to protecting our environment but to improving our tourism offering as a borough.”

Councillor Cheryl Johnston, added: “I have taken part and arranged beach clean ups.

“It’s really is remarkable what can be found on our shores and the sheer amount of rubbish that can be removed in a few hours.

“This installation of the bins will help in our fight against the eight million pieces of plastic that find their way into our oceans daily by making the sea cleaner.”