Smokers put to the test in Edinburgh

Smokers in Edinburgh are being encouraged to dispose of their cigarette butts responsibly with the use of special ballot bins.

Residents are asked to vote on questions such as which is the best band – The Beatles or the Rolling Stones?’ and to choose between haggis or shortbread as the ultimate Scottish delicacy.

Smokers then put their cigarette ends in the corresponding side of specially adapted bins which are divided into two sections to vote for the answer of their choice. The ballot bins use a clear display so the public can see which way people are voting.

The initiative is part of the Neat Streets campaign which has been running across Scotland since May.

Carole Noble, Operations Director at Keep Scotland Beautiful said: “Litter is a genuine priority for local residents Scotland-wide and we are eager to see similar initiatives taking place nationwide in a concerted effort to reverse the decline of local environmental quality. Smoking related litter, whilst relatively small items, prove to be a big headache for those who have to clean them up.”

Patience Atkinson-Gregory of Amberol agrees that cigarette butts are a significant challenge for many councils across the UK. “For something so small, they cost a lot to clear up and are one of the most commonly dropped items of litter,” she comments. “That’s why we have designed some of our litter bins with stubber plates. Customers can also order stubber plates to be attached to their current bins as a way of encouraging smokers to deposit their cigarette butts responsibly.”

Amberol’s bins can be found across the UK from Fife in Scotland to Westminster in central London. They come in a range of shapes, sizes and styles to meet every need.

Contact us today to see how we can help keep your streets neat and tidy.