The Gum Litter Taskforce has set up shop in Macroom this week, bringing their Summer Roadshow campaign to Cork County as part of a nationwide effort to tackle the persistent problem of discarded chewing gum on Ireland’s streets.

The initiative, which partners with Cork County Council, combines education and awareness activities to highlight the environmental damage caused by improperly disposed chewing gum whilst reminding the public of the €150 fine that awaits careless gum droppers.

The taskforce’s efforts appear to be paying dividends. Since 2007, gum litter has decreased by almost 70% across Ireland, with 92% of people now reporting that they dispose of their chewing gum responsibly. However, the campaign still has work to do, as recent research reveals that 1 in 12 people admit to dropping gum on the ground, with men more than twice as likely as women to engage in this behaviour.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Joe Carroll said:

“We are pleased to welcome the Gum Litter Taskforce to Macroom. It is a great initiative that generates awareness of the negative impacts of gum litter in a fun and engaging way. As a Council, we are committed to working with campaigns such as the Gum Litter Taskforce, that promote responsible litter disposal behaviours, and result in cleaner communities.”

The campaign launch was supported by Minister of State with responsibility for Circular Economy, Alan Dillon, who praised the measurable impact of the initiative: “I’m delighted to kick off another year of the Gum Litter Taskforce’s Summer Roadshow. Since 2007, we have seen clear, measurable change on our streets thanks to the work of the Gum Litter Taskforce. The consistent fall in gum litter shows that education and collaboration are driving real results. This is exactly the kind of behavioural change we need to build a cleaner, greener Ireland.”

The Summer Roadshow represents a collaboration between Food Drink Ireland, the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, the chewing gum industry, and local authorities. The programme will make 20 stops across 17 counties throughout the summer months.

Looking ahead, the taskforce will expand their reach with a school-focused programme called ‘Bin It!’ scheduled to visit primary and secondary schools across the country from October. Further information about the campaign is available at www.gumlittertaskforce.ie.