Businesses registered more than 450 locations for 2019 Business Clean Up Day, a national event organised by Clean Up Australia to encourage the business community to take action by removing rubbish in local parks, bushland, beaches and suburban streets.

According to Clean Up Australia managing director Terrie-Ann Johnson, the 17th Business Clean Up Day saw a 25percent increase in participation over 2018.

‘‘We are delighted to see the Australian business community demonstrate an increasing interest in active community involvement,’’ Ms Johnson said.

‘‘Business Clean Up Day is both a team-building exercise and a chance to raise awareness of the types of rubbish we are creating in all facets of our life. Not only are the businesses championing improved environmental practices, their employees are sharing what they learn with their families, friends and the broader community.

‘‘The event presents the ideal opportunity for businesses of all sizes to work with their employees to foster improved practices and to be role models for the rest of the community.’’

Small enterprises to multinationals participated in this year’s Business Clean Up Day. They represented a wide range of industries including IT, finance, waste, community, education, manufacturing, mining, retail and engineering.

‘‘With so many industries represented this year, participating businesses are creating a loud and influential voice, reflecting our mantra that change starts with you,’’ Ms Johnson said.

‘‘Clean Up Australia’s work with the business community is not just about getting together to remove rubbish. We work with businesses to reduce their waste in their everyday operations and we have opportunities for businesses to work with us on a number of waste and litter reduction campaigns such as Clean Up Our Waste and Clean Up our Waterways.’’