This Volunteers’ week, we are shining a spotlight on our incredible volunteers and their groups of litter-pickers who are making a tangible difference to our local environment and community; showing that they truly love where they live.
Meet the passionate volunteers behind the Transport for London (TfL) Graduate Group. This new initiative was established by graduates to motivate and inspire London’s youth to take action to improve their local community.
The team’s purpose is to raise awareness of the issue of waste among younger generations, while also organising litter-picks so that local communities can make a difference.
Olivia, Project Manager from the TfL Graduate teamAs a young person it can be easy to feel as though any effort you make to help the environment or clean up your city will be overshadowed by the sheer amount of waste that is created every day. However, it's getting directly involved within the community that shows why your impact is so essential!
Established earlier this year with the support of Keep Britain Tidy, the TfL Graduate Group have already run two successful events, resulting in an impressive 70 bags of rubbish being collected. This tangible outcome highlights the power of collective action.
Beyond physical litter-picks, the team has amplified their message and connected with a younger audience through ingenious TikTok content. This innovative approach aims to increase awareness among young people about the significant impact of litter and encourage greater environmental responsibility.
Olivia, a Project Manager from the TfL Graduate team, shared her insights on the importance of this hands-on approach:
"As a young person it can be easy to feel as though any effort you make to help the environment or clean up your city will be overshadowed by the sheer amount of waste that is created every day. However, it's getting directly involved within the community that shows why your impact is so essential!”
“Seeing the physical changes you can make yourself is more powerful than simple statistics and articles. Not only can you feel proud that you are actively taking rubbish off the street, but you'll encourage those around you to take a stand too. Keep Britain Tidy's goal to increase youth engagement is essential to ensure we don't become complacent at the state of the world, and continue to improve it generation upon generation."
The TfL Graduate team's initiative perfectly embodies the spirit of Volunteer Celebration Week. Their dedication not only makes London cleaner but also fosters a sense of empowerment and collective responsibility among young people, proving that every piece of litter picked up contributes to a better, brighter future.
*originally published 30/05/2025*