Tramore named as one of eight clean beaches by IBAL
The annual nationwide survey by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) of beaches and harbours has shown Tramore to be one of the beaches found to be ‘Clean to European Norms’.
Nationally, litter levels are on the rise, however Tramore was one of eight of the thirty-three areas surveyed to receive the ‘Clean’ designation.
The An Taisce report found Tramore to be a fantastic site, not just in terms of the lack of litter, but in the overall presentation of same. The report stated, “It is clear to see that there is great involvement by both the local authority and community groups and evidence of the latter can be seen ‘litter picking’ and the Tramore Eco Group ‘Borrow Box’ for beach toys.”
The promenade was very well served by litter bins and all aspects of the area surveyed were in excellent condition, including the lovely signage for ‘fun family activities’. Additional features noted in the report included the novel design for plastic bottles and can recycling.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary said, “I’m delighted that Tramore was deservingly recognised as a fantastic site. The results are, in the main, down to the collaborative efforts of the Council’s ground crews and the tireless work of Tramore’s wonderful voluntary groups such as the Tramore Tidy Towns group and Tramore Eco Group.”
“It’s evident that these groups have phenomenal pride in the town, and they have rallied a formidable group of volunteers who, week in week out, help keep Tramore litter-free.”
Dungarvan Harbour was found to be ‘moderately littered’. The An Taisce report for Dungarvan stated that the overall impression in the immediate area of Davitt Quay / Walton Park and associated pathways was of a well presented environment, enhanced by wonderful planting. However, the litter grade was brought down by casually discarded food and alcohol related items in Walton Park and some larger items discarded in the water.
Unsurprisingly there was a fall-off in Covid masks and gloves found, but also in alcohol-related litter which was linked to lockdown. Coffee cups remained a significant litter item, however, present in half of the areas surveyed. The most common forms of litter found by the assessors were cigarette butts, sweet wrappers and plastic bottles. Research shows a single cigarette butt can contaminate up to 200 litres of water.
Alongside its impact on tourism and recreation, IBAL is warning that coastal litter has grave implications for the future of our planet.
Beaches, harbours, rivers and their immediate environs were monitored by An Taisce in June and July 2022.
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