Even one piece of litter can harm our wildlife and waterways. Shellharbour City Council is proud to support the NSW Environmental Protection Authority’s Nature Hates a Tosser campaign to reduce litter and protect our environment. 

Every year, people in NSW throw away about 25,000 tonnes of litter, costing the state around $500 million. Studies show that up to 90% of seabirds have eaten plastic, and every sea turtle checked in a recent study had ingested plastic. Litter isn’t just unsightly, it’s dangerous. 

What's happening locally?

From May 2026, the campaign will roll out across Shellharbour through signage, digital messages and bin wraps in public spaces. 

 

How can you help?

  • Dispose of waste responsibly – use a bin or take it with you 

  • Report littering through the NSW EPA’s Report a Tosser portal 

  • Share the message: Nature hates a tosser – BIN IT. OR BRING IT. 

 

Why it matters

Shellharbour’s Litter Prevention Roadmap sets clear targets: 

  • Reduce littered items by 60% by 2030 
  • Cut plastic litter by 30% by 2025 

Together, we can protect our bushland, coasts and waterways for future generations. 

Learn more: NSW Government – Nature Hates A Tosser. 

This project is supported by the NSW Environment Protection Authority through its Litter Prevention Program.

Last updated : Wed 20 May 2026