POLLUTION FROM LITTERING is getting worse in Ireland, with cigarette butts and chewing gum the main culprits, according to new research from the government.

The results of the 2024 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System (NLPMS) were released today, indicating that almost 60% of all areas surveyed were slightly polluted, an increase of 3% from 2023.

Last year, 5,579 litter pollution surveys were undertaken across the country as part of an annual project set up to monitor the level of litter in Ireland.

Less than 20% of all areas surveyed were unpolluted, a figure which has fallen by over 2% since 2023.

At the same time, the rate of moderate pollution has increased by 2%, with over 17% of areas surveyed containing moderate levels of pollution.

Announcing the latest results, Minister of State with responsibility for the Circular Economy Alan Dillon warned of the need to “remain vigilant” against litter. 

The only decrease in littering levels came in areas of significant pollution. 3% of all areas surveyed in 2024 were significantly polluted, 2.8% less than the year before.

Grossly polluted areas remain low, but are on the rise. 0.6% of all areas surveyed in 2024 were grossly polluted areas, an increase of 0.1% from 2023.

Dillon said: “I welcome the continued progress in reducing significantly polluted areas across the country. However, we must remain vigilant. Tackling litter pollution requires a collective effort from regulatory bodies, communities and individuals.”

Causes

The research suggests passing pedestrians continue to be the main cause of litter pollution – 39.4% of litter was caused by this group in 2024.

Passing motorists were the second major reason for rubbish. Retail outlets, gathering points, places of leisure, fast food outlets, schools and bus stops were also significant culprits.

Illegal dumping only accounted for 2.6% of all litter found.

The main litter items found – chewing gum and cigarette ends – stayed the same in 2024 as in 2023.

Sweet wrappers and vape related litter were also in the top ten rubbish items found.