Adare Tidy Towns is set to launch its new environmental awareness initiative, the “Small Butt Deadly” campaign, an effort designed to tackle the growing problem of cigarette butt litter in the village and protect the health of the River Maigue.
The launch will take place at 1pm in Adare Village Park and will be attended by Mayor of Limerick City and County, John Moran.
A Small Litter Item With a Big Impact
Cigarette butts are now the single most common litter item in Adare, and while they may appear harmless, their environmental impact is severe. Once discarded, cigarette filters break down into microplastics and release toxins including arsenic, lead, and nicotine. These pollutants wash unfiltered into the River Maigue during rainfall.
Scientific studies show that one cigarette butt dropped into a single litre of water has the potential to kill fish and other aquatic organisms. With thousands of butts discarded annually, the cumulative impact on local biodiversity is significant.
Protecting the River Maigue
The River Maigue is one of Adare’s most important natural assets. This campaign highlights the urgent need to prevent cigarette litter from entering the waterway and damaging its delicate ecosystem.
Adare Tidy Towns is calling on residents, visitors, and workers to play their part:
- Please do not throw cigarette butts on the ground
- Dispose of them responsibly in bins or portable ashtrays
- Support local efforts to keep Adare clean and protect our river
Working With the Business Community
As part of the campaign, Adare Tidy Towns will be engaging with local businesses to encourage the installation of cigarette butt disposal points, promote awareness among customers, and help reduce litter at source. Businesses will be invited to partner with the initiative and champion a cleaner, healthier village.
Statement from Adare Tidy Towns
"Cigarette butts may be small, but their impact on our environment is deadly. This campaign is about education, responsibility, and community action. By working together, we can significantly reduce this form of pollution and protect the River Maigue for future generations."
Campaign Launch: “Small Butt Deadly”
- Date: April 30th
- Time: 1pm
- Location: Adare Village Park Guest: Mayor John Moran
All members of the public, local businesses, and community groups are warmly invited to attend.
