The opening of registrations comes as COVID-19 restrictions that have significantly impacted local environments are easing.

There has never been a better time to tackle the surge in single use disposable items, such as takeaway coffee cups, food packaging, masks and sanitised wipes; all of which have polluted our local parks, bushland, streets, waterways and beaches.

Research reveals more than one-in three (34 per cent) of Australian households self-identified as producing more packaging waste during lockdown periods compared to previous years, and more than one-in-two (55 per cent) reported they are now more concerned about product packaging waste than they were in 2019.

Clean Up Australia Chairman, Pip Kiernan, says now is the time for all Australians to Step Up to Clean Up, to help protect and conserve local environments.

"This year has seen disruption to our lives, not least of all to our local environments which have been impacted by increased uptake of single-use, disposable items" said Ms Kiernan.

"We know Australians everywhere are itching to get involved and now is their chance to officially register interest for the next Clean Up Australia Day.

Indeed, it's never been more important to get involved and make a real difference.

"Whether you are a first time volunteer looking for a more eco-conscious New Year's resolution, or a more seasoned Clean Up Champion looking to get prepared early ahead of next year, now is the time for you to register your involvement."

Visit cleanup.org.au to register your clean up site or make a donation.

"By planning ahead and signing up to a Clean Up event, you are making a pledge to help cons"erve the environment for the long-term future, and taking an important action by stepping up for your community," Ms Kiernan.

In response to COVID-19, additional conditions will be put in place to ensure the health and safety of Clean Up volunteers, including set limits to volunteer numbers per event

Clean Up kits, will now include QR codes for registration on the day and hand sanitiser, plus bags and gloves for every volunteer.

The announcement of early-bird registrations follows heightened calls this year for more sustainable pathways for the nation, which include increased attention on 100 percent reusable, recyclable or compostable household packaging within the next decade.

"Stepping Up to Clean Up goes well beyond one day. It's an ongoing commitment to protecting our environment and looking for ways to help live more sustainably 365 days a year," Ms Kiernan said.

"Most recently, the 2025 National Packaging Targets set a clear path and open ambition for all Australians to choose a sustainable pathway for our future, which included targets for 100 per cent reusable, recyclable or compostable packaging, so the time to get involved is now - for both Clean Up Australia Day 2021 and well beyond,

If you can't join a Clean Up, Ms Kiernan urges you to make a donation to Clean Up Australia.

All funds raised through donations are allocated to the provision of educational resources and clean up materials provided free of charge to community, school and youth groups across the nation, all year round.

Clean Up Australia Day - Sunday March 7

Business Clean Up Day - Tuesday March 2

Schools Clean Up Day - Friday March 5