In a rubbish report released by the organisation, beach and coastal locations were the number one most polluted areas in NSW, with the amount of rubbish increasing in 2009.

According to the report, cigarette butts accounted for the most pollution, closely followed by alcohol bottles and cans and plastic confectionary wrappers.

Founder of Clean Up Australia Day Ian Kiernan, AO, said it is time for Aussies to clean up their act.

“The rubbish report is an important reminder for Australians to think carefully about how they dispose of common rubbish items and improve their habits, especially given that most of the top ten items, such as bottles and cans are recyclable,” he said.

In its 20th year, founder of the largest community-based environment event Mr Kiernan is hoping it is the biggest yet.

Over 600,000 people volunteered across Australia last year.

There are plenty of clean up sites happening throughout the Great Lakes area this Sunday.

To volunteer simply turn up at the site, or register your own site at cleanupaustraliaday.org.au

F ind a site in your area

o Old library, Booner St Hawks Nest 8am – 12pm

o “Rowdy Acres” 73 Clarke St Pindimar 8am – 12pm

o Community hall North Arm Cove 9am – 11.45am

o Karuah Park 9am – 12pm.

Top ten rubbish items

1. Cigarette butts

2. Glass alcohol bottles

3. Aluminium cans

4. Pieces of glass

5. Plastic chip bags and confectionary wrappers

6. Plastic bottle caps

7. Small pieces of paper

8. Aluminium soft drink cans

9. Plastic PET drink bottles

10. Foil confectionary wrappers