Posted on: Friday 29 May 2026
A series of environmental volunteering events has been organised for this year’s Make a Difference Week.
Events ranging from litter picking to Himalayan balsam pulling have been arranged as part of a week of activities aimed at harnessing the power of community action to tackle local environmental issues.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for the Environment, said: "June is Community Action Month, which celebrates and promotes volunteering and community involvement.
“Make a Difference Week is just one of the weeks during the month which we have events planned.
“This week overlaps with Volunteers’ Week, which is why we’re encouraging people to come along to our events, receive free training, and become part of our effort to keep litter and invasive plants at bay across Torfaen.
“These events are a great example of the Torfaen Deal in action – we’ll provide the knowledge, tools and support, and in return we’re asking residents to help us look after our local environment."
Make a Difference Week runs from Sunday 30 May to Friday 7 June. Local events include:
- Tuesday 2 June – Big Balsam Bash launch, Cwmbran Boating Lake (meet at gazebo), 10am–2pm
- Wednesday 3 June – Litter pick and balsam bash, Northfields (meet in car park), 10am–1pm
- Thursday 4 June – Balsam bash, Tirpentwys Local Nature Reserve, 10am–1pm
- Friday 5 June – Litter pick and balsam bash, Cwmbran Boating Lake (meet at car park near river), 10am–1pm
All events are open to the public, with no prior experience needed. Volunteers will be guided by council staff on the day.
Participants are advised to dress appropriately for the weather, wear sturdy footwear, and bring work gloves if possible (a limited number will be available).
Big Balsam Bash events will continue until August.
To find out more about the Big Balsam Bash and how to get involved beyond Make a Difference Week, visit https://getinvolved.torfaen.gov.uk/
Fancy volunteering? Visit Connect Torfaen to explore opportunities in your area.
The litter picking events are funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The National Trust and Natural England through the The Healthy Planet, Healthy People project.
Big Balsam Bash events are funded by the Welsh Government through the Local Places for Nature programme.