Cork County Council Launches 2026 Anti-Litter Challenge

Cork County Council has opened applications for the 2026 Anti-Litter Challenge, its long-running competition that pits towns and villages across the county against each other in the battle to banish litter from local streets and roads.

First introduced in the 1990s, the challenge sees participating communities assessed by judges on the presence or absence of litter. Friendly inter-community rivalry is at its heart, with Tidy Towns groups, community organisations, and environmental volunteers among those who regularly take part.

Last year's competition drew an impressive turnout, with 21 towns and 65 villages competing for a prize fund of close to €43,000. Millstreet took top honours in the Towns category, with Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh winning the Large Villages category and Knocknagree claiming the Small Villages title.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley is urging more groups to get involved this year:

"As spring arrives, it's a perfect moment to refocus on the places we live and how we can all help keep them looking their best. Across the county, community groups continue to lead the way in tackling litter and creating cleaner, safer spaces for everyone. Last year's challenge saw an impressive turnout, with 21 towns and 65 villages taking part and sharing close to €43,000 in prizes. Millstreet, Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh, and Knocknagree claimed top honours in the Towns, Large Villages, and Small Villages categories. I'm excited to welcome returning participants this year, and equally eager to see new communities join the effort to keep our county beautiful."

Applications can be made online at corkcoco.ie. The closing date is Thursday, 9th April, with judging beginning on Monday, 27th April. For further information, email litterchallenge@corkcoco.ie or contact Cork County Council on 021-4532700.