The Gum Litter Taskforce (GLT) took to the streets of Portlaoise on the recently as part of its Summer Roadshow.
Local authorities and communities were collaborated with nationwide, engaging in fun and educational activities to promote proper gum disposal and raise awareness about the environmental and financial impacts of gum litter.
Now in its seventeenth year, the campaign collaborating between Food Drink Ireland, the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, the chewing gum industry, and local authorities.
Research from the GLT shows that one in seven people continue to drop their gum on the ground, the majority of which being men at (19%) with women at (9%).
Recently however, there is a shift in attitudes, particularly among children who are increasingly aware of the negative impacts of gum litter.
The 2023 GLT campaign positively influenced public attitudes and behaviour regarding gum disposal. There was a 5% increase in those who reported ‘always’ or ‘usually’ disposing of their gum in a bin, bringing the figure to a record high of 92%.
Cathaoirleach Padraig Fleming welcomed the Roadshow to Portlaoise.
He said: “We are delighted to welcome the Gum Litter Taskforce to Portlaoise.
“The reduction in gum litter is a testament to the campaign’s success, and we look forward to seeing continued positive changes.”
This year’s campaign will see GLT representatives working with local authorities and communities to conduct educational initiatives on proper gum disposal.
In September, the GLT’s Bin It! education programme will visit schools across the country, aiming to deliver 60 performances annually and reach 180 schools by 2025.
This programme complements lesson plans already available to nearly 730 schools in Ireland.
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