The results of our big volunteer survey are in! Discover who volunteers for our movement – and what motivates them.
Trash Hero volunteers are the driving force of our mission to create a world free from plastic pollution. To find out more about the incredible individuals who dedicate their time and energy to the movement, we conducted a survey of volunteers in all countries worldwide. We collected demographic information, asked about their motivation for joining Trash Hero and how their experience has impacted them and those around them.
We received 177 responses (approximately 70% of active volunteers). They make for inspiring reading and give some fascinating insights into the kind of people Trash Hero attracts – let’s dive in!
Volunteer demographics
Impact of volunteering
The survey revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback about how volunteering has helped people in multiple areas: making new friends, learning new skills and gaining knowledge about plastic pollution, as well as feeling happier and more confident! This confirms our experience that volunteering with Trash Hero is good for both the planet and your personal wellbeing.
Note: these statistics are self-reported.
Volunteer experience
Meet some of the volunteers who responded to the survey below:
Sabine, Trash Hero Basel, Switzerland Sabine found out about Trash Hero online and decided to join to help prevent plastic pollution. Before Trash Hero, she was already trying to reduce her plastic use, but since joining Trash Hero she has felt more confident to speak to others about the issue. She loves her team and the attitude of Trash Hero and hopes to volunteer with us for years to come.
Aziz, Trash Hero Mersing, Malaysia Aziz is a teacher who joined Trash Hero because he liked the vision and mission. Aziz wants to be a role model for people to reduce plastic use at home and school – he carries his Trash Hero water bottle wherever he goes! Thanks to Aziz, a friend chose an alternative to polystyrene plates at his wedding, avoiding a lot of plastic waste.
Nan, Trash Hero Ao Nang, Thailand Nan joined Trash Hero in 2015 after hearing about the cleanups in Koh Lipe. She loved the positive attitude of the movement. Since joining Trash Hero, she has installed a water filter in her home so they don’t have to buy water in plastic bottles. She has also reduced her own use of plastic and noticed that her friends and family have followed her example.
Suta, Trash Hero Tabanan, Indonesia Suta saw another chapter, Trash Hero Yeh Gangga, organising regular cleanups and thought it was a great way to expand his social circle. Since starting his own chapter, Suta has learned about the issues of plastic pollution and is now organising cleanups because he recognises plastic’s impact on our health. Since being part of the Trash Hero movement, Suta has become more confident, knowledgeable, happier and has made new friends.
So what are you waiting for? Join the Trash Hero movement today! You can join an existing chapter, start your own or volunteer remotely.
2 comments
Join the conversationKhaoula - 26/02/2024
Dear [Organization],
I am writing to express my interest in volunteering with your organization. As a recent graduate of the Printing Products Institute, I am passionate about helping with environmental or cultural creativity
She is keen to gain practical experience in this field.
I believe my education and prior experience are well suited to contribute to your organization. I am confident that my environmental business skills will be a valuable asset to your team.
In addition to the personal and professional development opportunities that volunteering with your organization will provide, I am driven by a desire to give back to the community and make a positive impact on the lives of those around me.
I am very excited about the opportunity to volunteer with your organization and am grateful for the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience. Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely, Khaoula.
Lydia - 26/02/2024
Hi Khaoula, thanks for wanting to be part of creating a world free from plastic pollution! Please send an email to volunteer@trashhero.org to sign up to volunteer.
Thank you!
Trash Hero