Ireland’s Beaches Achieve ‘Clean’ Status After Successful Litter Fight

UPDATE: A groundbreaking survey reveals that Ireland’s battle against beach litter is making significant strides. The latest report from Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) confirms that 17 out of 33 monitored beaches, harbours, and rivers have achieved ‘clean’ status—a remarkable 50% increase from previous assessments.

Conducted by An Taisce during June and July, the survey shows a dramatic decline in littered areas, dropping from 11 to just 3. Popular destinations such as Brittas Bay, Curracloe, Bundoran, Killiney, Strandhill, Portmarnock, and Tramore have all been recognized for their clean status.

This positive trend highlights the impact of ongoing efforts by local communities and authorities. Conor Horgan of IBAL states, “This is by far the most favourable result we have seen in eight years of coastal surveys.” He attributes this success to the tireless work of Clean Coasts groups, local councils’ investments in beach facilities, and recent legislative measures such as tethering caps to plastic bottles.

However, not all areas fared well. The tourist hotspot Dingle in Co. Kerry and Dog’s Bay Beach in Galway slipped to ‘littered’ status, prompting concern among environmental advocates. Horgan emphasized that while some locations have improved significantly, others still struggle with waste management.

The survey also sheds light on the types of litter commonly found. Cigarette butts, sweet wrappers, and fast-food packaging topped the list, while the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme resulted in a staggering 30% reduction in cans and plastic bottles. Still, coffee cups remain a persistent issue, found in 42% of surveyed sites. Horgan noted, “The coffee cup levy seems to have died with the last Government, but these findings show that the case for it has not died.”

The urgency of addressing beach litter cannot be overstated. Each year, approximately 8 million tons of plastic waste escape into the oceans globally, threatening marine life and ecosystems. The upcoming Big Beach Clean Up, organized by An Taisce’s Clean Coasts, is set for the weekend of September 19-21, 2023, with over 600 groups and 15,000 volunteers expected to participate in this crucial initiative.

This report serves as a strong motivator for continued community action and highlights the importance of maintaining clean and safe environments for both locals and tourists. As Ireland’s beaches become cleaner, the collective efforts of volunteers and authorities can pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Stay tuned for more updates as Ireland continues its fight against litter, ensuring a cleaner coast and a healthier environment for all.