A coastal clean-up removed tonnes of waste from Bermuda’s shores, according to environmental charity Keep Bermuda Beautiful.

The KBB Coastal Clean Up, sponsored by accounting firm EY Bermuda, addressed waste on more than 40 sites across the island between November 5 and 7.

A spokeswoman for the charity said hundreds of volunteers took part in the effort to collect ocean plastic and trash from the coastlines and beaches.

She said: “Cleaning up is more important today than ever as the ocean plastic crisis worsens and ever-increasing amounts of pollution arrive on our shores.

“However, it is also important for us to tackle our own waste – this year our focus was to start the clean-up of the Ducks Puddle coastline between the Causeway and Coney Island.

“Tonnes of trash was collected over a two-day period with volunteers coming together to make a difference.”

As part of the annual clean up – first launched in 1975 – volunteers were asked to record what litter they found as part of an international effort to measure the global pollution problem.

Bermuda is among 125 countries to provide data for the programme organised by the Ocean Conservatory.

Joel Edwards, EY Bermuda associate partner said: “This year’s effort was very successful. As part of the local community, we were thrilled to make a difference and Keep Bermuda Beautiful.”

Bill Bailey, EY Bermuda country partner and regional tax leader, added: “We are very proud of our EY teams in joining the initiative and delighted to continue our support as lead sponsor.

“This important programme also aligns with the EY purpose of building a better working world whether it be for our communities, our clients and our people.”

The KBB Coastal Clean Up is one of three major community clean ups organised by the charity, along with the We Love Our Parks clean up in February and the Great Big Clean Up in May.

Anyone interesting in sponsoring or volunteering for future clean ups is urged to contact the charity at www.kbb.bm.