The Green Police were first created at Glastonbury Festival in 1976 by Des Kay of Save the World Club to encourage litter picking.

During the 2000's they became a vital part of the festival infrastructure, helping to raise awareness about waste and reduce the environmental pollution caused by 100,000 people using the hedgerows and rivers as a toilet. Around 100 volunteers each year performed a funky alternative walkabout with a serious message - "careless pissing costs festivals". The Environment Agency closely monitor pollution levels, and the Green Police were part of an integrated strategy by festival management to meet the EA's stringent targets.

Smaller squads of Green Police have also patrolled at Big Green Gathering, the London Green Lifestyle Show, and Kingston Green Fair.