Arbroath is fortunate to have a community member like Michaela. We’ve received a whole host of email nominations via our website shining a spotlight on her unwavering commitment to keeping our local environment clean and litter-free.
Over the years, Michaela has tirelessly picked up tonnes of litter along country lanes, verges, and hedgerows, often encountering fly-tipping sites. Her efforts have extended to the beaches, where she has organised litter picks and coordinated a community of people who go above and beyond to not only keep Arbroath clean and tidy but reduce the impact of the rubbish on the nature and especially the wildlife we live alongside.
Michaela is an avid runner, having run every day for five years. She said;
“I really started ‘obsessive’ litter picking because of running every day, looking at the same pieces of litter again and again. My pledge is to ‘pick up at least a piece of litter every single run’, but it is usually more than that.”
In February 2023, Michaela took a significant step to address another environmental concern in the area. She installed a much-needed poo bin at Elliot Beach walkway, regularly emptying it and recording the weights to demonstrate the need for more waste facilities in the area. Her efforts have highlighted the lack of council bins between Elliot River and East Haven, a distance of three miles.
Michaela’s passion for environmental stewardship has not been limited to litter picking. She is currently taking the Dip a Day in October Challenge organised by Surfers Against Sewage to help end sewage pollution. Additionally, she volunteers at the local cat shelter, demonstrating her consideration for the well-being of animals in our community.
Michaela runs a local business ‘Absolutely Upholstery’ and has been living in Scotland for over 20 years now. Her selfless contributions to Arbroath serve as a reminder that every individual has the power to make a positive difference. Her work has helped to create a cleaner, healthier, and more enjoyable environment for everyone.
If you’d like to get involved, Michaela organises the Arbroath Litter Pickers every Saturday morning, you can follow the Facebook Groups here for more details: Arbroath Litter Pickers and Arbroath Beach Clean Up.
#OurArbroath #TogetherWeCan
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to make a positive impact on our Arbroath community? Help us recognise those who make a difference!
