Coastwatch Europe is a network of environmental groups, universities and other educational institutions, who work with local groups and individuals around the coast of Europe. Established in the 1980’s the goal of Coastwatch Europe is the protection and sustainable use of coastal resources, and informed public participation in environmental planning and management.
Coastwatch runs an annual survey each October designed to give an overview of the state of the coast. It involves volunteers from all walks of life checking their chosen 500m stretch of coast (survey unit) once around low tide, and noting observations on marine litter, water quality and biodiversity on a survey questionnaire while on the shore. The data are then collected and pooled to provide a snapshot of state in areas surveyed at that time.
To find out more about the Coastwatch survey please visit the survey website.