Cigarette ends top Waterford’s litter list

CIGARETTE ends account for more than 80% of all litter generated in Waterford, a survey by the city council has found.

Now schoolchildren, who discard cigarette ends and food packaging during their lunch break, are to be targeted by the council in a bid to clean up the streets.

The city council is currently spending a total of €1.7 million annually on street-cleaning and litter management, and has been prompted by the results of its litter survey to specifically target discarded cigarette butts and food waste.

The 2006 litter survey completed in Waterford city found a major jump in the amount of cigarette-related waste, up from 55% in 2005 to 81%.

Meanwhile, 12% of litter related to food including fast food containers, chewing gum and sweet wrappers.

A new litter management plan covering the period to 2011 has been adopted by the elected members of Waterford City Council and prioritises prevention and control measures, enforcement of legislation and public awareness, participation and education.

While recognising the progress already made in tackling the litter problem, the council acknowledged some issues remained.

These include litter generated by secondary school students at lunchtimes and takeaway food packaging discarded during early mornings — particularly at weekends.

According to environmental awareness officer Ella Ryan, the work will have to continue. “In planning for the remainder of this year and for 2008 and beyond, we are very conscious that while we have achieved a reduction in littering, there is still considerable work to be done.”

She said the immediate priorities will be a mix of enforcement activity and ongoing work to engage with everyone in the community.

“It is only with a united effort that we can make a significant and sustained impact,” she said. “Litter does not self-generate.”