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The Yorkshire Vet calls littering in the countryside a "massive sin" and we have to agree

Photo credit: Channel 5
Photo credit: Channel 5

The Yorkshire Vet's Peter Wright has said that he finds it "so sad" when people litter in the countryside, calling the act a "massive sin".

An interview has been resurfaced of Peter speaking to Northern Life Magazine last year, in which the veterinary surgeon and author said that pollution and climate change has sadly worsened over the years in Yorkshire. Growing up on a farm, he explained that it's upsetting how people don't care about the environment.

"I find litter in the countryside a massive sin," Peter said. "I know it is only a small part of climate change but it does deface our beautiful countryside. At least once a week myself or my wife or both of us will go out. We will pick wine bottles up, coffee cups, sandwich wrappers etc. I find it so sad that people can't appreciate and look after the countryside."

As well as the detrimental impact littering has on our planet, the veterinarian also opened up about how climate change is affecting wildlife — especially bird species like Guillemots and Puffins.

Photo credit: Channel 5
Photo credit: Channel 5

"I was filming at Bempton cliffs, where there is a wonderful colony of gannets," he added. "They're thriving but there are a lot of birds like Guillemots and Puffins that are not. A lot of those sea birds are in decline because of the climate change and food being scarce. Look at how we have built up rubbish over our coastal areas of the years, it's terrible what man has done, not only to our wildlife, but they are poisoning all our land."

Photo credit: richard johnson - Getty Images
Photo credit: richard johnson - Getty Images

What should you do if there is a litter problem in your area?

If you notice a litter problem in your area, you can report it to your local council through the government's 'Report a litter problem' website. All you need to do is enter your postcode and it will direct you to your local council.

While every area works differently, some will offer support with community clean-ups. If you're looking to get involved, simply contact your council and they will provide you with blue rubbish sacks, litter-pickers and hi-vis tabards. They will also collect all the waste gathered at your event.

Litter can be anything from crisp packets to dog poo and large bags of rubbish. As well as being unsightly, it can cause environmental problems, so it's vital you report any to your council.

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