Over 4 in 5 (82%) young people now say littering is socially unacceptable, but just 3 in 5 (61%) young people see gum as litter.
The visit comes as research from the Gum Litter Taskforce reveals that littering is now viewed as socially unacceptable by more than 4 in 5 (82%) young people. However, almost 1 in 4 young people still do not regard chewing gum as litter, highlighting the need for continued education and awareness.
Encouragingly, more than 9 in 10 people (92%) now report properly disposing of their chewing gum – the highest level recorded since the campaign began in 2007.
Welcoming the campaign, Mayor of Limerick John Moran said:
"Keeping Limerick’s streets, parks and public spaces clean requires a collective effort. Campaigns such as the Gum Litter Taskforce help raise awareness of the impact of littering while reducing the need for costly gum removal works. By encouraging people to bin their gum when they're done, we can all play a role in creating cleaner, more attractive communities and supporting a more sustainable approach to waste management."
Príomh Chomhairleoir at Limerick City and County Council, Cllr. Tom Ruddle commented:
“Limerick City and County Council is committed to ensuring Limerick’s streets and public spaces are clean, vibrant and enjoyable for everyone. Gum litter can have a significant impact on the appearance of our city and is costly to remove. Campaigns such as the Gum Litter Taskforce help raise awareness and encourage simple actions that make a real difference in keeping Limerick looking its best.”
Director General at Limerick City and County Council, Dr. Pat Daly added:
“Maintaining a clean Limerick is a priority for Limerick City and County Council. Clean streets, parks and public spaces create a welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors alike. Gum litter is one of the most persistent forms of litter and can detract from the appearance of our city while also creating significant cleaning costs. Initiatives such as the Gum Litter Taskforce play an important role in encouraging responsible behaviour and helping us all take pride in maintaining a cleaner, more attractive Limerick.”
Avril Donlon, Gum Litter Campaign Manager at Food Drink Ireland, added:
"This latest research shows real progress, with more young people recognising that littering is unacceptable and taking action. Our focus remains on making responsible gum disposal the norm and continuing to build on the positive behaviours we are seeing across communities nationwide."
Anne Sheeran, Corporate Affairs Manager at Mars Wrigley, said:
“We at Mars Wrigley are proud to support the Gum Litter Taskforce as part of our broader commitment to responsible business and sustainability. This campaign is delivering measurable change and helping to shape positive habits, with more people choosing to bin their gum and encouraging others to do the same. Through continued collaboration, we can build on this progress and further reduce gum litter in our communities.”
The Summer Roadshow will visit locations nationwide throughout June, July and August, while the Bin It! programme will return to schools from October.
Educational resources are available at www.gumlittertaskforce.ie.
