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Environmental Campaigns

By Waterford City & County Council

Comhairliúchán Poiblí 1 : Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán

Proposed Cycle Route

Tugann Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, le tacaíocht ó Bhonneagar Iompair Éireann agus Comhairle Contae Chorcaí, cuireadh dóibh siúd a chónaíonn, a oibríonn nó a thugann cuairt ar an limistéar staidéir idir Eochaill agus Dún Garbhán agus aon pháirtithe leasmhara eile páirt a ghlacadh sa chéad chomhairliúchán poiblí neamhreachtúil do Bhealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán.

Tá sé mar aidhm ag an tionscadal Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán bealach rothaíochta sábháilte, nasctha agus tarraingteach a chur ar fáil idir Eochaill agus Dún Garbhán, agus é mar chuid de nasc straitéiseach sa Líonra Náisiúnta Rothaíochta (NCN). Tá an tionscadal mar chuid den ‘Tionscadal maidir le Treo-Aimsitheoir Corcaigh go Port Láirge’ atá aitheanta ag an Roinn Iompair chun tacú le Beartas Soghluaisteachta Inbhuanaithe Rialtas na hÉireann. Cuirfidh an tionscadal ar chumas úsáideoirí rothaíocht go sábháilte chun críocha áineasa, fóillíochta agus comaitéireachta idir an dá bhaile agus tá sé mar aidhm leis feabhas a chur ar inrochtaineacht ar sheirbhísí, ar áiseanna agus ar nithe is díol spéise, amhail Slí Dhéagláin, feadh an bhealaigh.

Tá an tionscadal i gCéim 2 faoi láthair: Roghnú Roghanna, lena mbaineann conairí bealaí féideartha laistigh de réimse an staidéir a shainaithint agus a mheasúnú chun cinneadh a dhéanamh maidir leis an rogha bealaigh is fearr.

Iarrtar ort teacht chuig ár n-imeachtaí comhairliúcháin phoiblí chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil faoin tionscadal agus chun do thuairimí agus d’aiseolas faoin scéim a roinnt linn.

Beidh dhá imeacht comhairliúcháin phoiblí ar an láthair ar siúl mar seo a leanas:

  1. Dé Máirt, 20 Feabhra 2024: 14:30-20:00
    Óstán na Páirce, Dún Garbhán, Co. Phort Láirge, X35 CC97
  2. Dé Céadaoin, an 21 Feabhra 2024: 14:30-20:00
    Ionad Ealaíon an Mheal, Teach an Mheal, Eochaill, Co. Chorcaí, P36 FR96

Is féidir leat páirt a ghlacadh sa chomhairliúchán poiblí ar líne freisin trí fhéachaint ar fhaisnéis an tionscadail agus tríd an bhfoirm aiseolais ar shuíomh gréasáin tiomnaithe an tionscadail a líonadh isteach ag: y2dcycleroute.ie ón 20ú Feabhra.

Beidh eolas faoin tionscadal agus foirmeacha aiseolais ar fáil freisin ag Oifigí Cathartha Dhún Garbhán, Leabharlann Dhún Garbhán agus Leabharlann Eochaille ón 20 Feabhra. Beidh an comhairliúchán poiblí neamhreachtúil ar oscailt le haghaidh tuairimí ón Máirt 20 Feabhra go dtí Dé Máirt 5 Márta.

Mura féidir leat freastal ar cheann dár n-imeachtaí i bpearsain agus mura bhfuil tú in ann teacht ar an suíomh gréasáin, ná bíodh drogall ort teagmháil a dhéanamh le foireann an tionscadail ar an teileafón ar 0818 10 20 10 agus a chur in iúl go mbaineann do ghlao le Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán, trí ríomhphost a sheoladh chuig ActiveTravel@waterfordcouncil.ie nó tríd an bpost chuig Comhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge, An Rannóg um Thaisteal Gníomhach, Rannóg na mBóithre, Oifigí Cathartha, Dún Garbhán, Co. Phort Láirge.

By Waterford City & County Council

Local retailers Re-turn to recycling

It is estimated that 5 million single-use drinks bottles and cans are consumed every day in Ireland. Drinks containers are typically consumed ‘on the go’ and are often thrown away in mixed waste or litter, instead of being recycled.

In November of last year, The Minister of State with responsibility for Communications and Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth launched Ireland’s national Deposit Return Scheme (DRS).

The Deposit Return Scheme will boost the recycling rate for these drinks containers – by charging a small, refundable deposit for each plastic bottle or can.  From February 1st, 2024, empty and undamaged bottles or cans with the Re-turn logo can be returned to a participating store, and customers will be issued a voucher that can either be used for a cash refund of the deposit or towards their shopping at the store.

Ella Ryan, Environmental Education Officer with Waterford City and County Council welcomed the initiative saying, “it will encourage us all to return single-use plastic bottles and cans, reduce litter and help protect our environment.”

Ella added, “Throughout Waterford retailers are embracing the scheme and have either installed reverse vending machines (RVMs) or will accept undamaged plastic bottles and aluminium cans over the counter.

“We’re delighted to see such commitment from local businesses and this scheme will lead to huge changes in attitudes towards recycling and help support a circular economy, by moving away from the take-make-dispose linear economy, which is clearly unsustainable.”

Tony Murphy of the popular Centra in John’s Park recently installed two reverse vending machines ahead of the new DRS Scheme launching on February 1st  nationwide.

“This initiative will be crucial in changing our attitudes towards recycling, and keeping our street, parks, beaches litter-free and Centra are happy to lead in this environmental initiative.

“Fully redeemable deposits will be placed on plastic bottles and cans, but once they are returned undamaged to any store, the customer can receive the deposit back for a voucher redeemable in the store it was returned to.”

Tony added, “We intend to make the return process as seamless as possible and have installed the reverse vending machines at the entrance of the shop, so even if the bottle or can hasn’t been purchased in our store, customers can pop in, return, recycle and receive a voucher which can be redeemed for cash or used against the value of their shopping.”

The deposit fee will be 15c for containers from 150ml to 500ml and 25c for containers over 500ml and up to three litres.

To find out more about Ireland’s new Deposit Return Scheme visit  https://re-turn.ie/

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Image: Tony Murphy of Murphy’s Centra and Ella Ryan, Waterford City and County Council

By Waterford City & County Council

Landowner to pay clean-up costs for illegal dumping

An elderly landowner was spared a waste management conviction on January 17th at Carrick on Suir District court on the provision he paid €3000 to the Local Authority’s clean-up costs.

Waterford City and County Council took a prosecution against the landowner for facilitating the unauthorised management of construction and demolition waste and soil in a protected area adjacent to the River Suir near Carrick on Suir.

Niall Kane, Senior Executive Engineer with Waterford City and County Council outlined to Judge Brian O’Shea that construction and demolition waste had been dumped on the land which forms part of the Lower River Suir Special Area of Conservation prior to July 2022.

The landowner for the land in question could not be traced, and the land appeared to be abandoned.  However, in August 2022, an adjoining landowner paid a contractor to form an entrance ramp to the land with the waste material to provide an additional access to his adjoining land.

Subsequent to this, Waterford City and County Council undertook a clean-up operation, removing the construction and demolition waste to restore the area to its previous condition.

The adjoining landowner pled guilty to the offence under section 32 of the Waste Management Act, but Judge O’Shea, noting that the defendant had not previously been before the courts, said he would apply the probation act to the landowner and spare him a conviction if he contributed €3,000 to the council’s clean-up costs.

By Waterford City & County Council

Maintenance works at Kilbarry Nature Park

Over the coming weeks (15/01/24 – 09/02/24) we will be carrying out management and maintenance works at Kilbarry Nature Park, including the clearance of vegetation from the side slopes.

The purpose of the same is to implement a maintenance programme to ensure establishing trees are permitted sufficient space and not hampered by aggressive growing and fast colonising vegetation such as gorse and briars. This is in line with best practices for tree establishment in the Forestry and Landscape Guidelines.

20-meter sections will be cleared of gorse, briars and other aggressive vegetation shall be controlled with strategically planted trees being maintained. Works will be completed in advance of the nesting season under Section 40(1) (a) of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford once again ranked as Ireland’s Cleanest City

Once again Waterford has emerged as Ireland’s Cleanest City in the Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) Anti-Litter League.  The city ranked 13th out of 40 cities and towns and was classed as Clean to European norms.

 

Waterford City continues to score very well in the IBAL litter league, and this was very much helped along by seventeen out of the twenty-four sites surveyed getting the top litter grade and there no litter blackspots.

 

The report also cited, ‘It’s not just the litter situation which sets Waterford City and other high-ranking towns / cities apart but the overall presentation and maintenance of the sites e.g. The People’s Park has typically been top ranking and yet there were continued works within to improve it.

 

‘The Riverwalk along the Quays and Merchant’s Quay Car Park have both been recently improved and enhanced.’

 

Some of the sites that were awarded Grade A include Lady Lane, John Robert’s Square (Barronstrand St./Broad Street), Waterford Greenway at Bilberry, the People’s Park, the Mall, the Medieval Quarter and SETU.

 

Ballybeg has again scored very well and was also classed as Clean to European norms, with six out of the ten sites getting the top litter grade, three just missing it, and only one seriously littered site.

 

Ella Ryan, Environmental Awareness Officer with Waterford City and County Council welcomed the IBAL league results, saying “Waterford is once again the cleanest city in Ireland, and that is testament to the work of the local authority, volunteer clean-up groups and the local communities.

 

“This collaborative approach by the Council with voluntary committees, schools and local business groups is working in keeping Waterford a clean, attractive place to live, work and invest in.

 

“There remains however, some privately owned sites than need to be addressed, as littering and discarded rubbish was noted in some areas. If every business got behind the movement and ensured their premises and grounds were maintained to a high standard, there is no reason for Waterford not to attain Cleaner than European norms classification in the next survey.”

 

Ella added, “Waterford City and County Council will continue to introduce new environmental awareness initiatives in addition to those that have generated a seismic shift in how we discard our rubbish, such as Cigarette Butt Ballot bins, Bring Banks Sensor Bins, the Schools Litter Challenge and the Bag It Bin It campaigns.”

 

Details of the most recent Irish Business against Litter Survey can be found at https://ibal.ie/anti-litter-league/

 

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Images attached:

Area surveyed from Reginald’s Tower to the Irish Silver Museum, Irish Wake Museum, Medieval Museum, Bishop’s Place and Christ Church Cathedral awarded Grade A as ‘an exceptionally well presented and maintained environment which is clearly very well respected.  It was spotless throughout.’

 

About IBAL:

Set up in 1996, Irish Business Against Litter is an alliance of companies sharing a belief that continued economic prosperity – notably in the areas of tourism, food and direct foreign investment – is contingent on a clean, litter-free environment.  As part of the IBAL Anti-Litter League, An Taisce monitors towns independently and in accordance with international grading standards.

By Waterford City & County Council

GLACFAR SAOR IN AISCE LE CRAINN NOLLAG NÁDÚRTHA I GCOMHAIR ATHCHÚRSÁLA AG NA HIONAID FHÓNTAS POIBLÍ GO DTÍ AN 13 EANÁIR 2024

  • Cill Bharra

Luan – Aoine   11.00r.n. – 4.00i.n.

 

  • Dún Garbhán

Luan – Déardoin 8.30r.n.- 1.00i.n. & 1.30i.n.- 4.00i.n.

Satharn 9.00r.n. – 12.30i.n.

 

Déan athchúrsáil ar do chadhnraí le do thoil. Úsáid na boscaí bailiúcháin chadhnra i do theach, i do scoil, san ionad oibre, i do shiopa áitiúil agus ag d’ionad fóntas poiblí áitiúil.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Schools Clean Up for Litter Challenge

 

Eleven Waterford secondary schools were represented at a reception in City Hall earlier this week, in recognition of their dedication to keeping their local areas litter-free.

The Waterford Schools Litter Challenge, sponsored by Tom Murphy Car Sales Volkswagen, in association with Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Chamber saw secondary schools from across the city and county partake in the challenge.

St Augustine’s College Dungarvan emerged as the overall winner of the Schools Litter Challenge, and received €1,500 prize money, sponsored by Tom Murphy Car Sales Volkswagen.

The competition, which was launched in October by Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Joe Conway encouraged secondary schools to keep a designated local area litter free.  The students then carried out regular litter picking, identifying black spots for litter in their area, learning about the sources of litter, and about the benefits of using reusable items instead of single use items.

Prior to the awarding of certificates to the participating schools, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway said, “The Waterford Schools Litter Challenge has now ended for another year, but I sincerely hope that its influence has not.

“Seeing you all out in our communities in your high-visibility vests with your litter pickers and black bags in hand, taking responsibility for cleaning up the mess that others have made, will hopefully have made others more conscious of the impact of dropping litter.

“Your local communities are much nicer places to spend time in as a result of your hard work, not to mention safer places for both people and wildlife.”

The mayor added, “Initiatives like these couldn’t take place without the support of great local businesses.  I’d like to thank Tom and the team at Tom Murphy Car Sales Volkswagen for sponsoring this wonderful event and for taking the time to be with us here with us today.”

Tom Murphy, sponsor of the competition prize money for the third year, echoed the mayor’s sentiments, “We are once again delighted to be involved in this initiative.  All of the schools approached the challenge with enthusiasm, willingness and good humour!

“The fruits of their labour have not gone unnoticed, with a very apparent decrease in litter and debris in the designated areas.  We were also delighted to receive many reports of how impressed the local communities were when they saw the students out litter picking.”

Waterford City and County Council provided bags, gloves, litter pickers and high visibility vests to all schools and Tom Murphy Volkswagen sponsored the €1,500 prize for the winning school. 

The secondary schools from across County Waterford that entered the competition were Blackwater Community School, St Augustine’s College (Overall winner), Ardscoil na nDeise, Meanscoil San Nioclás, Mount Sion CBS Secondary School, Waterpark College, Ursuline Secondary School, Dungarvan CBS, St Declan’s Community College, De La Salle College, Abbey Community College and St. Paul’s Community College.

Ella Ryan, Environmental Awareness Officer with Waterford City and County Council commented, “This challenge seems to be going from strength to strength.  Not only does it serve to make young people more cognisant of the detrimental effects of litter, but it also encourages them to act.  These schools’ commitment to cleaner, greener localities and communities has a ripple effect as it make us all want to take action to keep our neighbourhoods litter free.”

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Free to use images: Noel Browne

1:         Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway and Tom Murphy, Tom Murphy Car Sales, presenting cheque to the winning school, St. Augustine’s College pupils Aoibhe O’Connor, Katie Power and Olivia Tumu and teacher Eamonn Cashin.

2/3:      Ella Ryan, Environmental Awareness Officer WCCC, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway and Tom Murphy, Tom Murphy Car Sales, and winning school, St. Augustine’s College pupils Aoibhe O’ Connor, Katie Power and Olivia Tumu with teacher        Eamonn Cashin.

4:         Pupils from  Abbey Community College

5:         Pupils and teachers from De La Salle College

6.         Pupils from St. Paul’s Community College

7.         Pupils from Blackwater Community School.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City & County Council calls for dog owners to bag it and bin it!

Dog owners of Waterford are being urged to clean up their dog’s waste by bagging it and binning it!

Not only is dog poo unsightly and smelly, but it can also pose a health hazard. Dog poo on our streets, parks, trails and beaches can cause illness and lead to the spread of disease, as it contains harmful bacteria such as E-coli and parasites like roundworm. Not only this, but it can cause serious kidney disorders, diarrhoea, intestinal illnesses, and cramps.

Parents with buggies, children, and vulnerable groups such as wheelchair users and the visually impaired, are particularly susceptible to stepping in or wheeling through dog poo, and being at risk of these health implications, not to mention the unpleasantness and inconvenience of getting poo on shoes, hands or wheels.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway said, “The majority of dog owners and dog walkers are responsible and ensure that they clean up after their pets.  However, there is a minority that believes their dog waste is not their responsibility.”

“The consequences of not bagging, binning or bringing it home are not pleasant.  Dog poo and discarded poo bags are a blight on the landscape, they spoil our wonderful natural amenities, and they are harmful to people and wildlife.”

By simply ensuring we all clean up after our dogs, we protect our community and our environment.”

Niall Kane, Senior Executive Engineer, with Waterford City and County Council added, “Dog waste should be bagged immediately and can be discarded in any public bin.  If there is no public bin in the vicinity of the walk, it should be brought home and disposed of in a suitable sanitary manner.

“Often is the case, some owners will bag it, but then leave the bags on trees or on walkways, which is unsightly and has a detrimental effect on the environment. Discarded poo bags are a threat to wildlife through ingestion and entanglement, and can end up in our rivers and lakes, causing further damage to our marine life…the consequences of which will be felt for generations to come.”

Waterford City and County Council encourages all dog owners to make the right decision and clean up after their pooches to protect our communities, our wildlife and our outdoor spaces.

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Images: Free to use (WCCC)

  • Lydia O’Connor (WCCC) and Peaches, Niall Kane Senior Executive Engineer (WCCC) and Ivy, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway and Ella Ryan Environmental Awareness Officer (WCCC) with Bess.
  • Ella Ryan Environmental Awareness Officer (WCCC), Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway and Niall Kane Senior Executive Engineer (WCCC) with Bess and Ivy.

By Waterford City & County Council

Public Consultation – Tramore Ring Road Pedestrian & Cycle Improvements

Waterford City & County Council proposes to undertake the construction of a 3km long pedestrian and cycle improvement scheme along the R675 Tramore Ring Road between Riverstown Roundabout and Newtown Roundabout, Tramore.

The proposed works include:

  • Construction of a dedicated two-way cycle track separated from vehicle traffic by a raised kerb or grass verge.
  • Junction tightening measures along the route.
  • Upgrade of 5no roundabouts to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Construction of 3 No. signal-controlled pedestrian crossing points as indicated on the drawings.
  • Improving connections to existing footpaths and estates at various locations as indicated on the drawings.

The objective of the scheme is to prioritise pedestrian and cycle movements over vehicles and to provide a safer and more attractive connection between the three primary schools, the secondary school, sports ground, and the numerous housing estates along the scheme extents.

The drawings together with the information leaflet are available for inspection on Waterford City and County Council’s consultation portal at consult.waterfordcouncil.ie and is also on display in our Customer Services Departments in Bailey’s New Street in the City and Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan from Tuesday 3rd October 2023 to Tuesday 31st October 2023.

The Council will consider any submissions or observations made in writing regarding the proposal.

Submissions should be made on the Council’s Consultation portal or by writing to James Cummins, Staff Officer, Active Travel Team, Waterford City & County Council, Menapia Building, The Mall, Waterford or by email to jcummins@waterfordcouncil.ie to be received by Tuesday 31st October 2023.

Please note that comments, including names of those making comments, submitted to the Council regarding this process will form part of the statutorily required report to be presented at a meeting of the elected members. Accordingly, they may also appear in the public domain.

By Waterford City & County Council

BMX Pump Track latest addition to Dungarvan’s Linear Park

 

 

The BMX Pump track comprises of a 120-metre-long beginners track and a 420-metre advanced track and is the ideal amenity for BMXers to test their ability to ‘pump’ speed from the track using the rollers

As part of the project, Waterford City and County Council consulted with BMX Ireland and Cycling Ireland for advice on the specification for a BMX Pump Track and to ensure the most authentic ‘pump’ experience for its users.

Cathaoirleach of the Dungarvan / Lismore District Cllr. Pat Nugent was delighted to officially open the track and said “It’s wonderful to see the addition of such an accessible, high calibre track to the park.  The feedback from Cycle Ireland, BMX Ireland and the local visitors to the park has been so positive.

“The amenities in this park have flourished and the Learn to Cycle track, performance area, skatepark, BMX Pump track and the imminent completion of an adult exercise area are all fantastic additions to the community landscape and will encourage people of all ages to get out and about and try something new in a safe, family-friendly outdoor area.”

Waterford City and County Council secured funding of €195,000 under the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Sports Capital Programme.

Peter Jones, Waterford Sports Partnership commented, “The input of Cycling Ireland and BMX Ireland was invaluable throughout the process.  In consultation with their members, we were able to deliver a top-class track that is as accessible to beginners as it is challenging to advanced riders.”

Kieran Kehoe, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council added, “As a Smarter Travel Town, Dungarvan is leading the way in providing outdoor cycle and walking facilities to encourage a more sustainable and healthier lifestyle to all ages.  The Local Authority will continue to invest in such amenities so that the benefit can be reaped by everyone in the town and surrounding areas.”

The Pump track was constructed in a sustainable manner, applying the principles of the circular economy in terms of reuse of materials and life cycle costing.  Recycled aggregates were used in the build-up of all slopes, banks and ramps and these were provided by quarries in the Dungarvan area.

Works were completed earlier this month by contractors Trailbreaker, along with VeloSolutions which developed the plan for the track.

By Waterford City & County Council

Uisce Éireann Reminds Waterford Public To Conserve Water

OVER HALF OF PEOPLE IN IRELAND STILL ADMIT TO WASTING WATER

Uisce Éireann today renewed its appeal to the public to ‘Think Water Conservation’ as warm weather returns and demand increases. This comes as over half of Irish households (54%)* still admit to wasting water. As part of its annual campaign, Uisce Éireann is calling on households across the country to assess water usage habits and take practical steps to save water daily.

With warm, dry weather experienced by much of the country this week and with many people now back in school and work after the holidays, Uisce Éireann has seen an increase in demand for water. However, there are no plans to introduce general water restrictions or hosepipe bans. The public has been asked to help play their part in protecting essential water supplies for their local communities, and to conserve water where possible.

Simple water saving tips include:

  • Checking your water consuming appliances such as washing machines and dishwaters for any plumbing issues. This includes looking out for dripping joints or leaking supply hoses
  • Keep a jug of water in the fridge rather than letting the tap run cold and save six litres a day
  • Making sure the tap is off while brushing teeth can save 84 litres of water a week
  • Reducing shower time by 60 seconds can save up to 120 litres of water every week
  • 250 litres of water a week can be saved by fixing any leaking or dripping taps in the garden

Speaking of the importance of water conservation year-round, Stephen Burke, Regional Operations Manager for Uisce Éireann, said:

“We are experiencing a warm, dry, spell of weather this week, and, while it is great to see after a particularly wet summer, this brings its own unique set of challenges. Many of us will be enjoying these warm evenings in our gardens, however, it is important to remain conscious of our water usage habits throughout the year, regardless of the weather.

“Some urban areas tend to see increases in demand around this time of year as schools return and people come back to work after holidays. Also, as we come into autumn and winter, storms and other extreme weather can impact on the capacity to treat and produce clean drinking water.  For this reason, water conservation is something we should think about year-round, not just during the summer.

“By working together to use only what we need in our homes, gardens, and businesses, we can all contribute to ensuring a sustainable water supply for everyone. We are encouraging communities all over Ireland to play their part and think water conservation throughout the year.

“Don’t forget to also check the ground above your pipes for signs of leaks. At Uisce Éireann we are also continuing our First Fix Free programme which helps households that may be using higher levels of water than average, which could signal a potential leakage problem.  Our team will investigate the cause of the leak and fix the issue to curtail any further potential leaks. This is in line with the Uisce Éireann collaborative approach to water conservation.”

Stephen also reminded the public that once again the Uisce Éireann Conservation Calculator is on hand to help households examine how much water they are currently using and identify changes they could make to reduce their use.

“The average water use of one person is 133 litres per day.  The Conservation Calculator provides helpful advice for those wanting to ensure they use water responsibly to improve their score rating and is free for all households to use on our website. It offers practical advice on conserving water, to ensure we have a sustainable water supply for everyone in years to come. We are encouraging everyone to play their part with us and think water conservation”.

For further information visit www.water.ie/conservation/

By Waterford City & County Council

IBAL litter survey shows most beaches not clean, however Dungarvan and Tramore impress

                                                                                   

 

Both Dungarvan Harbour and Tramore were found to be Clean to European norms. However, the study of 33 areas nationwide revealed the majority of beaches falling short of clean status, despite the unsettled summer meaning lower visitor numbers.

Dungarvan particularly impressed the judges and the overall impression created at Dungarvan was a very positive one and notably improved on 2022 IBAL Marine surveys.

The report stated that, “This time around it was very much deserving of the top litter grade.  The paving, planted areas, seating, water fountain, lifebelts, litter bins and visitor information notices were in very good order, creating a very positive impression.  Despite the presence of cigarette butt disposal units there was a definite butt presence, particularly beneath the seating – perhaps the provision of dedicated cigarette butt notices may help.

“The ‘novel’ plastic drinking bottles only facility was being well used.  Hopefully alcohol related litter doesn’t build up under the bridge as was the case in previous years.  The ‘Love this Place, Leave no Trace’ illustration on the Big Belly bins was an attractive way of delivering this message.”

Tramore also received a very positive report, with it receiving an excellent result in 2022 which was replicated in 2023.

According to the IBAL Litter survey, “The beach, promenade, parking and immediate environs were not just excellent with regard to litter but very freshly presented and maintained e.g., paving, signage, visitor information notices, seating, planter boxes, lifebelts etc.

“The area is exceptionally well served by litter bins and associated signage, and this is certainly having the desired effect – a very clean site.  The Beach Borrow Box is a lovely feature.  There was minimal litter throughout, some occasional food related items, dog fouling and cigarette butts.”

Beaches, harbours, rivers and their immediate environs were monitored by An Taisce in June and July. While there was a 50% rise in clean sites overall, the survey again found our coastal areas to be more littered than our towns, which IBAL researches as part of its Anti-Litter League programme.

“Over an unsettled summer, where our beaches attracted far fewer numbers than normal, one might have expected the majority to be virtually free of litter,” says Conor Horgan of IBAL.  “Unfortunately, this does not reflect the state of our coastal environment. There is much ‘long lie’ litter and waste coming in from the sea, and this is compounded by litter from those who continue to frequent our coastline despite the inclement weather.”

Despite the unsettled weather, there was little fall-off in the most prevalent types of litter on our coastline – cigarette butts, sweet wrappers, fast food wrapping and plastic bottles. Coffee cups were present in almost half of sites.

Disposable vapes were revealed as an emerging form of litter, encountered in 1 in 7 of all visits, making them significantly more common on our beaches than on our streets.

Ella Ryan, Environmental Awareness Officer with Waterford City and County Council welcomed the IBAL findings.  “While this is a very positive result for both Dungarvan and Tramore, we can’t rest on our laurels.  As a Local Authority, we will continue to work with the local community, volunteer groups, schools and business groups to ensure our coastal areas remain clean, welcoming and attractive places to visit.

“Waterford City is consistently ranked as Ireland’s Cleanest City and that approach to keeping our coastal areas litter-free and Clean to European norms also applies.  Initiatives such as the Cigarette Ballot Bin, Bring bank Sensor bins and the Schools Local Litter Challenge, Gum Litter Challenge and the 2Go Cup initiatives are making a positive impact on our streets and on our beach areas.”

IBAL credits the Clean Coasts programme, which supports over 2,000 volunteer groups, as a major force in ridding our coasts of litter throughout the year. Its annual ‘Big Beach Clean’ takes place nationwide each September. The continued rise in volunteers, now in excess of 40,000, reflects the growing public concern around the marine environment.

“Coastal litter is unsightly and unhygienic and deters visitors to our shores. Less evident, but more disturbing, is its impact on our sea life, which in turn threatens the very sustainability of our planet,” comments Conor Horgan.

 

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