The Big Beach Clear-Up to involve 400 sites around the U.K. Project will survey litter composition, as well.

Marks & Spencer is working with the Marine Conservation Society to raise awareness of the problems of beach litter. As part of this effort, M&S is urging individuals to participate in “the U.K.'s biggest beach clean and survey,” involving 400 cleanings, which will take place at locations around the U.K. from Sept. 17-18.

Says M&S, “Some of our best-loved marine wildlife is under threat from the waste and litter in our seas. Hundreds of species accidentally eat or become tangled up in litter. Turtles mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, and the bags can block their stomachs often leading them to starve.

“On top of causing harm to wildlife, litter on our beaches is hazardous to people. There's nothing better than a stroll along the beach—the sand between your toes, the pebbles moving on the tide—but sadly these days a walk along many U.K. beaches could see you coming into contact with litter. Common finds are bits of plastic, fishing nets and ropes, bottle tops, bottles and fast food wrappers.”

During the beach cleanings, M&S will be recording the litter found, and the findings will form part of a Marine Conservation Society report measuring the amount and types of litter found and the different sources. This will help the group in campaigning for cleaner beaches and seas for the future.